What is the Rotary Foundation?

Whereas “Rotary International” (RI) is the administrative club to which Rotarians belong, the Rotary Foundation (RF) is the 501(C)3 not-for-profit that receives and distributes charitable donations to projects at home and around the globe. The Rotary Foundation has one of the highest ratings among charities, with a remarkably low administrative margin. While “RI” is funded through member dues, the Rotary Foundation is funded solely by contributions over and above annual dues. Although giving is by no means mandatory, every Rotarian is encouraged to support the foundation as they are able. No contribution is too small.

Where does the money go?

Half of the dollars go to the World Fund, which supports foundation activities available to all clubs internationally. The other half of the funding goes back to the district of origin where it is used to provide matching funds for club service projects at home and around the globe. All foundation disbursements are used to better the lives of others in support of the Foundation’s six areas of focus:

• Peace and conflict prevention and resolution
• Disease prevention and treatment
• Water and sanitation
• Maternal and child health
• Basic education and literacy
• Economic and community development

How can I contribute?

The easiest way to support the foundation is through Rotary Direct. Your monthly, quarterly or annual contribution will be made automatically by electronic withdrawal or credit card. To get started, download the Rotary Direct Enrollment Form. Contributions may also be made through our club treasurer or foundation chair, or by downloading the Foundation Contribution Form.

How are contributions recognized?

Individual contributors are eligible for the following donor recognition opportunities:

• Sustaining Member – contributes at least $100 per year.
• Paul Harris Fellow – cumulative lifetime contribution of $1,000 or more. May be earned up to nine times. ⁺
• Paul Harris Society – Has pledged to contribute $1000 or more annually when able.
• Major Donor – cumulative lifetime contribution of $10,000 or more.
• Arch C. Klumph Society – cumulative lifetime contribution of $250,000 or more.

Clubs are eligible for the following donor recognition opportunities:

• Every Rotarian, Every Year – every individual makes a contribution within a fiscal year. Those contributions average $100 per member or more. Awarded annually.
• 100% Sustaining Members – every individual makes a contribution of $100 per member or greater within a fiscal year. Awarded annually.
• 100% Paul Harris Fellows – every individual in the club is a Paul Harris Fellow. Awarded one time only.

 + Paul Harris Fellow eligibility may be earned through service recognition points in lieu of some or all dollar-value contributions.