Doing Good in the World
Pat Derr loved the Rotary Foundation and reminded us of its positive impact each time we recognized a new Paul Harris Fellow. As we celebrate Foundation Month, it’s appropriate that we reflect on and renew our commitment to helping achieve Foundation goals.
Founded in 1917, the Rotary Foundation strives towards world peace and understanding through international humanitarian, educational and cultural exchange programs. Rotarians plan and manage projects that focus on saving and enriching the lives of people; enhancing friendship & understanding; and providing education, food, potable water, health care, immunizations, and shelter. These efforts are enabled by generous donations to three funds - Endowment, Annual Programs and Special Purpose.
Contributions to the Endowment Fund are invested in perpetuity. A portion of the earnings supplement Foundation activities. A goal is for earnings to eventually fund all of Rotary’s operating expenses. Contact me if you’d like to learn more or become a Benefactor or to join the Bequest Society.
The Annual Programs Fund enables Rotary clubs to positively impact communities locally and around the globe. Contributions fund efforts to strengthen peace efforts, provide clean water and sanitation, support education, grow local economies, save mothers and children, and fight disease. Programs that support these efforts include Every Rotarian Every Year, Foundation Sustaining Members, Paul Harris Fellows, Paul Harris Society and Major Donors.
Special Purpose Funds are targeted to specific needs, notably Rotary’s polio eradication efforts since 1985. The Syrian civil war has recently and negatively impacted this effort and threatens to enable the virus’ spread into Europe. The Foundation is working diligently with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, US Centers for Disease Control and others to identify and treat those affected and halt the spread of this infectious disease.
The Rotary Foundation remains focused on making a difference in the lives of those it touches. Rotarians who support these efforts are deeply appreciated. Those who desire to join the team and leave a legacy are encouraged to make the commitment today – Engage Rotary, Change Lives!