The Rotary Foundation is a powerhouse of global change, fueled by the passion and dedication of millions of Rotarians worldwide. Established in 1917, the Foundation has enabled Rotary International and its clubs to fund transformative projects in over 200 countries. The Foundation’s mission is clear: to empower communities, eradicate poverty, improve education, and promote peace. Its flagship initiative, the fight to end polio, has reduced cases by 99.9% since the 1980s, impacting countless lives and nearly eliminating the disease globally.
But its scope goes beyond health. Through grants and scholarships, the Foundation supports clean water initiatives, disease prevention, maternal and child health, economic development, basic education, and protecting the environment. The Rotary Peace Fellowships also provide specialised training for future leaders committed to resolving conflicts and fostering peace around the world. Every dollar donated is stretched to maximise impact, and the Foundation consistently earns high ratings for its transparency and efficient use of funds. Backed by passionate volunteers and a vision for a better world, the Rotary Foundation embodies what it means to create lasting change—one project, one life, and one community at a time.
The Rotary Foundation’s goals are structured around seven main areas of focus, each targeting a global challenge:
Promoting Peace: Through its Peace Fellowships and conflict resolution programs, the Foundation trains leaders and provides resources to address and prevent conflicts in vulnerable regions.
Fighting Disease: Known for its fight against polio, Rotary also funds initiatives for disease prevention, treatment, and improving healthcare access in underserved communities.
Providing Clean Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene: The Foundation works to secure sustainable water resources and sanitation solutions for communities lacking these essentials, enhancing public health and economic stability.
Supporting Education: Rotary initiatives support basic literacy, skill-building, and educational access, helping to break cycles of poverty and create brighter futures.
Saving Mothers and Children: By improving healthcare and access to essential medical services, the Foundation strives to reduce maternal and child mortality rates worldwide.
Growing Local Economies: Rotary Foundation programs boost economic development and provide microloans, skill training, and resources for entrepreneurs to help communities thrive independently.
Supporting the Environment. Introduced in 2020, this area reflects Rotary’s commitment to addressing the pressing environmental issues impacting communities worldwide, including conservation of natural resources, promoting sustainable practices, and tackling climate change challenges.
Learn more about Rotary Melbourne's humanitarian efforts across these Areas of Focus by clicking the button below.
The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into service projects that change lives both close to home and around the world.
The Rotary Foundation carefully manages its financials to maximise the impact of donations, with more than US$400 million in contributions received annually. The funds are categorised mainly into the Annual Fund, PolioPlus Fund, and Endowment Fund, each designed to support different types of projects and goals.
Annual Fund: With approximately US$150 million in donations during each fiscal year, the Annual Fund supports Rotary’s worldwide grants and community projects across areas like clean water, health, and economic development. This fund’s structure allows donations to be invested for three years, with earnings used to cover administrative costs, ensuring that contributions fully fund service projects.
PolioPlus Fund: Since 1988, Rotary’s PolioPlus Fund has amassed over $2.5 billion, making it the financial engine behind the global polio eradication initiative. Donations to this fund help finance vaccination campaigns, advocacy, and polio surveillance, effectively reducing polio cases by 99.9% worldwide​
Endowment Fund: With a value of over US$525 million, the Endowment Fund ensures long-term project funding. It is structured to grow through investments, using its annual returns to fund grants and scholarships indefinitely. Contributions to the Endowment Fund each year of over US$35 million help build Rotary’s ability to sustain its programs over time.
In total, Rotary allocates around 88% of its expenditures to program awards, including large-scale international projects and disaster response efforts, making a significant difference in communities worldwide. This strategic financial model, combined with a high rating for financial transparency, ensures that every dollar goes further, creating lasting impact in line with Rotary's mission to improve lives globally.
To learn more about the Rotary Foundation, click on the button below.
