|
The Rotary International Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation that
supports the efforts of Rotary International to achieve world
understanding and peace through international humanitarian, educational,
and cultural exchange programs. It is supported solely by voluntary
contributions from Rotarians and friends of the Foundation who share its
vision of a better world.
The Foundation was
created in 1917 by Rotary International's sixth president, Arch C. Klumph,
as an endowment fund for Rotary "to do good in the world." It has grown
from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $55 million
contributed in 2002-03. Its event-filled history is a story of Rotarians
learning the value of service to humanity.
The Foundation's
Humanitarian Programs fund international Rotary club and district projects
to improve the quality of life, providing health care, clean water, food,
education, and other essential needs primarily in the developing world.
One of the major Humanitarian Programs is PolioPlus, which seeks to
eradicate the polio virus worldwide. Through its Educational Programs, the
Foundation provides funding for some 1,200 students to study abroad each
year. Grants are also awarded to university teachers to teach in
developing countries and for exchanges of business and professional
people. Former participants in the Foundation's programs have the
opportunity to continue their affiliation with Rotary as Foundation
Alumni.
For more
information on the Rotary International Foundation,
click here.
|
