Rotary International is a worldwide organisation of business and professional persons who are united in serving their local, national and global communities. Rotary International is a big organisation. There are over 1.2million members in more than 200 countries and geographical regions. Rotarians are the members of Rotary Clubs that belong to Rotary International. There are 32,000 Clubs around the world. Rotarians work together for the betterment of their local communities, for their national communities and for the people of the world. Rotary International is non-political, and non-sectarian. Membership is by invitation only, and is equally open to men and women. Rotary International believes that it is the first private organisation ever to set out to eradicate a world wide disease. Since 1985, Rotarians have been fundraising and organising Polio Immunisation Days around the world. In 1985 there were some 300,000 cases a year. In 2007 there were just 1,181 cases. With our world wide network we are ideally placed to conduct a project like this with our partner agencies. Rotarians have launched major initiatives on literacy and numeracy in the developing world and in parts of the developed world. Poor literacy skills are a major obstacle to human development, and a blockage to employment. By funding reading programmes in many countries, Rotarians are working for the betterment of all mankind. The benefits claimed by most Rotarians for their membership of a Rotary Club are "fellowship" and the "opportunity to put something back into society". If you would value the benefit of giving something back to your local community, and would enjoy doing it with a group of dynamic leaders in business and professions, you ought to make contact with your local Rotary Club, and introduce yourself.

Benefits of membership As a large and diverse organisation, Rotary provides individuals with the power to help those in need. There are countless opportunities to make a difference to those less fortunate than ourselves. Friendship In an increasingly complex world, Rotary maintains a simple philosophy - make friends in your own community and throughout the world. Giving back to the community Through Rotary, service to local and overseas communities is well organised and rewarding. If you like helping others, here is your chance to do something worthwhile and make a real difference. Fun and entertainment Rotary is fun... a lot of fun. Every Rotary club and district arranges parties and activities that provide a welcome distraction to a hectic business life. Business development Networking opportunities are endless. Rotary consists of a cross-section from every business community and its members come from all walks of life. Rotarians help each other and collectively help others. Personal growth and development Membership of Rotary develops leadership, public speaking, social, business, personal and vocational skills as well as improving cultural awareness. Continued learning Clubs organise programmes and weekly meetings to keep members informed about what is going on in the community, the country, and the world. Each meeting provides an opportunity to listen to different speakers on a variety of current topics. Travel opportunities Every Rotarian is welcome - even encouraged - to attend any of the 33,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical regions. This bond creates an instant friendship wherever you are in the world. Many a Rotarian in need of a local doctor, lawyer, hotel, dentist, or other expertise while travelling has found assistance through Rotary.