The Rotary Foundation

Doing good around the world through the goodwill of committed Rotarians

The Rotary Foundation traces its beginnings to 1917, when Rotary International President Arch C. Klumph proposed creating an endowment “for the purpose of doing good in the world,” building upon Rotary founder Paul H. Harris’s vision of fellowship expressed through meaningful service. The fund began with an initial contribution of just $26.50 and later evolved into The Rotary Foundation, which has supported humanitarian, educational, and peacebuilding initiatives around the world for more than a century.

Rotarians who contribute to The Rotary Foundation are recognized for achieving different levels of commitment:

• Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member: Contributes $100 or more annually to the Annual Fund.
• Paul Harris Fellow: Recognizes cumulative contributions of $1,000 or more to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved Foundation grant.
• Multiple Paul Harris Fellow: Awarded for each additional $1,000 in eligible cumulative contributions.
• Paul Harris Society Member: Commits to giving $1,000 or more each Rotary year.
• Benefactor: Gives or commits $1,000 or more to the Endowment Fund, including through an estate plan.
• Major Donor: Achieves cumulative giving of $10,000 or more, with four recognition levels through $249,999.
• Bequest Society Member: Commits $10,000 or more to The Rotary Foundation through an estate or future gift.
• Arch Klumph Society Member: Reaches cumulative giving of $250,000 or more.
• Legacy Society Member: Commits a future gift of $1 million or more to the Endowment.