Rotary International is the oldest service club organization in the world.  It is a worldwide association of men and women who, under the motto “Service above Self” – serve selflessly – have come together in clubs, to use their professional skills in volunteer work to make a difference.

Peace, international understanding and the creation of decent living conditions around the world are the main goals. The flagship project “Polio Plus” is a worldwide campaign aimed at eradicating polio.

Since the establishment of the first club by four friends over 105 years ago, Rotary has developed into a worldwide network of dedicated men and women who pursue a common vision.  Using their skills to help others – in the local environment of their own community as well as in  international humanitarian projects.  Members of the Rotary Club are leaders from all professions and use their professional skills in volunteer work in order to make its motto – “Service Above Self” (serve selflessly) – a reality. Moreover, they make for  high ethical standards in all vocations, and strongly help to build goodwill and peace in the world.

In addition to the individual projects in each club, there are big international aid projects. The umbrella organization of the Rotary International organization and the Foundation are funded as a central foundation of all Rotarians. Top priority is “Polio Plus”, the fight against polio.

Rotary also works with youth, providing Ambassadorial Scholarships and Youth Exchange Programmes.  What better way to promote the peaceful coexistence of peoples than facilitating young people to encounter other cultures ?

Worldwide, there are currently more than 1.2 million members who are active in 34,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and regions. Rotary clubs are independent, non-partisan and non-denominational. They are open to members of all cultures, races and creeds.