About The Rotary Foundation
The
Rotary Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation that supports the
efforts of Rotary International to achieve world understanding and
peace through internationa
l
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 US$26.50 to more than US$106
million contributed in 2003-04. 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.
The Rotary Foundation Chairman
PDG Bruce Allen
(H) 9683 6304 (F) 9683 6304 (M) 0412 965 845
bjallen@bigpond.net.au