ONE BIG FAMILY
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. Rotaract, originally a Rotary International youth program, brings together people ages 18 and older to exchange ideas with leaders in the community, develop leadership and professional skills, and have fun through service. In communities worldwide, Rotary and Rotaract members work side by side to take action through service. From big cities to rural villages, Rotaract is changing communities like yours.
ROTARACT'S GLOBAL IMPACT
10,684
CLUBS
162,354
ROTARACTORS
183
COUNTRIES
WHAT IS ROTARACT?
"Rotaract" stands for "Rotary in Action", although the name originally comes from a combination of "Rotary" and "Interact," the high-school level program created by Rotary International in 1962. Most Rotaract activities take place at the club level, and clubs hold formal meetings about every two weeks that feature speakers, special outings, social activities, and discussions.
Club members get together on designated days for service project work, social events, or professional/leadership development workshops. Rotaract members decide how to organize and run their clubs, manage their own funds, and plan and carry out activities and service projects. Rotary club sponsors offer guidance and support and work with your club as partners in service.
ABOUT ROTARY
Rotary started with the vision of one man — Paul Harris. The Chicago attorney formed the Rotary Club of Chicago on 23 February 1905, so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships. Over time, Rotary’s reach and vision gradually extended to humanitarian service. Members have a long track record of addressing challenges in their communities and around the world.
Only 16 years after being founded, Rotary had clubs on six continents. Our members now span the globe, working to solve some of our world’s most challenging problems. We’re not afraid to dream big and set bold goals. We began our fight against polio in 1979 with a project to immunize 6 million children in the Philippines. Today, polio remains endemic in only two countries — down from 125 in 1988.
With every project, Rotary is changing the world for the better. Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.