In the realm of humanitarian endeavors, the Rotary Foundation (TRF) stands tall as Rotary International's singular charity, embodying the spirit of service and compassion across the globe. Rooted in a legacy of altruism, TRF harnesses the collective efforts of Rotarians worldwide, channeling their resources towards impactful initiatives aligned with seven key areas of focus. From battling diseases to combating poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition, TRF empowers Rotarians to enact sustainable solutions that leave an enduring mark on communities.
What sets TRF apart is its sterling reputation for astute financial stewardship and effective utilization of donations. For over a decade, TRF has consistently earned the prestigious four-star rating from Charity Navigator, a testament to its prudent management of donors' contributions—an accolade achieved by a mere one percent of charities worldwide.
Established in 1917 by Rotary International's visionary leader Arch Klumph, TRF originated as an endowment fund aimed at furnishing Rotary with a perpetual stream of resources to effect positive change globally. From its humble beginnings with an initial contribution of $26.50 from the Rotary Club of Kansas City, TRF has burgeoned into a juggernaut with assets surpassing $1 billion. Its unparalleled support extends to grants exceeding $1 million per day, fostering Rotarian-led projects that touch countless lives.
Over the years, TRF has allocated more than $4 billion to catalyze transformative, sustainable endeavors. Its mission, rooted in the ethos of advancing world understanding, goodwill, and peace, underscores its pivotal role in enhancing health, education, and socioeconomic conditions worldwide.
As an enabling foundation, TRF thrives on the generosity and active engagement of its members and allies. By soliciting donations and encouraging direct involvement, TRF amplifies its impact, driving meaningful change through collective action.
Central to TRF's funding structure is the Annual Fund, wherein contributions are divided between the District Fund and the World Fund. These funds serve as the lifeblood of Rotary projects, fueling initiatives through global and district grants.
At the helm of TRF's operations is the Board of Trustees, led by the Trustee Chair—currently Ian Riseley, Past RI President from Australia. Nominated by the Rotary International President Elect and elected by the RI Board of Directors, trustees wield their expertise to steer TRF's course, with each serving a four-year term.
TRF's illustrious track record boasts significant achievements, spearheading global campaigns such as polio eradication and peace promotion. From its inaugural grant in 1930 to the establishment of scholarships posthumously honoring Rotary's founder Paul Harris, TRF has touched countless lives, awarding over 350,000 scholarships to date.
Polio eradication remains a paramount philanthropic pursuit for Rotary, with the PolioPlus program launched in 1985. Through strategic partnerships under the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary has made remarkable strides, immunizing nearly 3 billion children and slashing polio cases by 99.9 percent—a testament to the power of collective action.
In 2002, TRF introduced the Peace Fellow Program, cultivating a cadre of over 1,400 Fellows who champion peace and conflict resolution in over 115 countries. These trailblazers occupy pivotal roles across diverse sectors, shaping policy, education, and humanitarian efforts on a global scale.
TRF's legacy of humanitarian impact endures, with hundreds of thousands gaining access to clean water, healthcare, and education, thanks to its unwavering commitment to service. As Rotary's beacon of hope, TRF continues to illuminate the path towards a brighter, more equitable world for generations to come.