When asked to describe the aim of Rotary, Paul Harris is said to have responded ‘We contribute to the world’s happiness.’ Rotarians put this into action in many ways, small and large, close to home and around the globe.Many Rotary clubs in our District are actively partner with clubs around the world through the Rotary Global Grants program. Global Grants provide a structured, accountable way to support development projects that result in tangible impact in addressing some our most difficult problems.
Our District clubs are currently involved in fighting malaria in Uganda, increasing agricultural
productivity in Nigeria, improving child nutrition in Senegal and Guatemala, and supporting communities impacted by the war in Ukraine. These projects not only produce tangible results, they also provide opportunities for Rotarians to learn from each other, share experiences and build lasting relationships.
Every club can be part of an international project. The District’s International Service Committee works with clubs to define their interests, identify suitable projects, and engage in a way that meets their capacities. A club can start by learning more about Global Grants and project examples, support an ongoing project with a small investment, begin to engage with partner clubs, and then continue to become more involved in leading new projects.
Here are a few ideas to learn how you and your club can get involved in Rotary’s international service projects:
Read about several projects supported by District Clubs.
Learn about the Global Grants program on My.Rotary.org.
Review projects under development to gain ideas of what may be possible.
Discuss what you have learned and share ideas with club members.
Invite a speaker to discuss a Global Grant project at a club meeting.
Join the International Service Committee to start learning by doing!
The International Service Committee members are ready to help you and your club learn more about these opportunities, brainstorm ideas and identify options to get involved. We know for sure that doing so will only increase happiness in the world!
Steven Shepelwich
Chair, International Service Committee
Rotary District 5750