History

“WHATEVER ROTARY MAY MEAN TO US, TO THE WORLD IT WILL BE KNOWN BY THE RESULTS IT ACHIEVES.”

—PAUL P. HARRIS, Founder of Rotary

 

Founded in Chicago in 1905
Rotary began as a way for professionals to connect, serve their communities, and build lasting friendships.
Today Rotary includes more than 1.2 million members worldwide.  

Our Ongoing Commitment

For more than a century, Rotarians have united to solve problems, support communities, and create lasting impact locally and around the world.  From literacy and clean water to the fight against polio, Rotary continues to bring people together through service.  

Why People Join Rotary

  • Serve the Community
  • Build Friendships
  • Develop Leadership Skills
  • Connect with Local Professionals
  • Support Global Causes

  • Have Fun While Making an Impact

    Notable Rotarians

    Rotary members have included leaders, innovators, artist, and humanitarians from around the world including:

  • Warren G. Harding, U.S. president
  • Jean Sibelius, Finnish composer
  • Dr. Charles H. Mayo, co-founder of Mayo Clinic
  • Guglielmo Marconi, Italian inventor of the wireless radio and Nobel laureate
  • Manny Pacquaio, Filipino world-champion boxer and congressman
  • Carlos Romulo, UN General Assembly president
Serving our community while building friendships.
 
Curious About Rotary?
 
Join us for a meeting, service project, or social event and see what Evening Rotary is all about.  Whether you're looking to serve, connect, lead or simply give back locally, guests are always welcome.