ABOUT ROTARY
Serving Our Local and Global Communities
Rotary is a global network of 1.4 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.
What is Rotary?
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.
CLICK HERE to learn about What We Do: New Paltz Rotary Supported Projects.
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Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. Our 46,000+ clubs work together to:
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Promote peace
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Fight disease
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Provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene
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Save mothers and children
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Support education
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Grow local economies
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Protect the environment
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Our mission
We provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.
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Vision statement
Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
As a global network that strives to build a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change, Rotary values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people of all backgrounds, regardless of their age, ethnicity, race, color, abilities, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
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ROTARY:
A BRIEF HISTORY
Rotary was founded in 1905 by Paul Harris, a Chicago attorney who wanted to encourage fellowship among business acquaintances. Weekly meetings in those first years literally rotated among member offices, providing the club with its name.
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They quickly adopted a focus on service, which continues today in the words of the Rotary motto: “Service Above Self.”
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The idea and ideals of Rotary soon expanded throughout the US and around the globe, where Rotary brings together people of all races, nationalities, religious faiths and political beliefs in a common mission of service to the community and the world, promoting global peace and international understanding.
AVENUES OF SERVICE
Rotary’s commitment to Service Above Self is channeled through five avenues of service:
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Club Service
Strengthens fellowship and ensures the smooth functioning of the club.
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Vocational Service
Serves others by sharing vocational expertise and promoting high ethical standards in business and personal life.
Community Service
Identifies and executes club projects and activities that improve life in the local community.
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International Service
Advances Rotary’s humanitarian efforts around the world and promotes global understanding and peace.
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New Generations
Matches youth and young adults with leadership development activities, service projects, and exchange programs that foster world peace and cultural understanding.
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