What is Rotary?

Rotary Club of Mount Pleasant SC

We’re Rotarians along the coast of South Carolina.

Highlighting "What Is Rotary"

Rotary is a global service organization made up of business, professional, and community leaders who volunteer their time and expertise to tackle challenges both locally and around the world.


United under the motto "Service Above Self," its 1.4 million members — known as Rotarians — are connected through a worldwide network of local Rotary clubs.


When Rotary was Born

Rotary Club was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 23rd, 1905 under the direction of lawyer Paul P. Harris. His goal was to create a professional club fostering fellowship and mutual helpfulness.


An Interesting Note:

The name "Rotary" came from the practice of rotating meetings among members' offices.


The main objective of a Rotary club is service -- In the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world.

Rotary International (RI) has developed a broad range of programs designed to help clubs carry out this vital mission.


Some programs have been underway for many years, while others have been developed more recently to meet emerging needs.


Addressing Today’s Critical Issues

Rotary's community development programs address many of today's most critical issues:

  • Addressing Hunger
  • Protecting The Environment
  • Advocating For Literacy
  • Fighting Disease
  • Promoting Peace

Rotary International also offers programs that focus on today's youth.


Youth programs include service clubs for high school students and young adults, as well as leadership training workshops and student exchanges.


Enabling Information Sharing

The international component of RI programs enables clubs and districts to assist Rotary efforts abroad.


Clubs and districts can also share information and arrange exchanges with Rotarians in other countries.


Vocational concerns figure in many club and district projects designed to promote high ethical standards.


These standards apply to the workplace and help young people grow as well.


Creating positive change in our world!

Be The Good. Discover what we are doing as well as goals we are achieving when joining us in Rotary!


Consider becoming a Rotarian and a member of our Rotary Club today!


Together, we can make our world a better place!

Become A Rotarian
 
The 2024-2025 Magic of Rotary theme.

From left: Gustavus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, Hiram E. Shorey, Paul P. Harris

From left: Gustavus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, Hiram E. Shorey, Paul P. Harris




Now that you know something about Rotary, you might ask yourself,
"What is the objective of Rotary?"

If you're inclined to learn more, consider browsing The Object of Rotary.

In addition, you might be interested in finding out more about our club.

Learn about our club history, meeting time, club location, and more!