Rotary was founded in 1905 with an initial focus on Rotarian-to-Rotarian business networking, and the fun and fellowship associated with a social organization. Throughout Rotary’s first century, the object expanded to feature service in the community, the workplace and throughout the world. Today, Rotary is an organization of business and professional persons united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace. The Rotary motto is “Service Above Self.” 

The first 4 Rotarians: Silvester Schiele, Paul P. Harris, Hiram Shorey, and Gustavus Loehr. 1905

Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. For more than 110 years, Rotary's people of action have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end.

Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. Our 35,000+ clubs work together to:· Promote peace· Fight disease· Provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene· Save mothers and children· Support education· Grow local economies. We are 1.2 million neighbors, friends, and community leaders who come together to create positive, lasting change in our communities and around the world.  Our differing occupations, cultures, and countries give us a unique perspective. Our shared passion for service helps us accomplish the remarkable.