The Rotary Foundation is the charitable arm of Rotary International, dedicated to advancing world understanding, goodwill, and peace through health, education, and sustainable community development.
Transforming Donations into Lasting Impact
Established in 1917 by Rotary International President Arch C. Klumph, The Rotary Foundation has grown into one of the world's most respected charitable organizations — recognized for its transparency, financial stewardship, and measurable global impact.
Funded entirely by voluntary contributions from Rotary members, individuals, and organizations, the Foundation transforms donations into sustainable projects that improve lives worldwide — from humanitarian initiatives and disaster response to educational scholarships and peacebuilding.
Seven Areas of Focus
The Foundation directs every grant toward seven cause areas where Rotary can make the greatest sustainable impact.
How the Foundation Works
Through multiple grant mechanisms, the Foundation empowers clubs and districts to deliver high-impact, sustainable projects worldwide.
District Grants
Flexible funding enabling clubs and districts to address local community needs quickly and effectively.
Global Grants
Large-scale international partnerships funding sustainable, measurable humanitarian projects across Rotary's focus areas.
Disaster Response Grants
Rapid-deployment funding for Rotary clubs responding to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.
Programs of Scale
Large multi-year investments supporting proven solutions to critical problems — scaling impact across entire regions.
Rotary Peace Fellowships
Graduate-level scholarships at Rotary Peace Centres, training leaders committed to conflict resolution and sustainable peace.