Rotary News
Press Releases from Wauchope Rotary may be downloaded here:
Group Study Exchange – download PDF Media Release GSE
Did you know that Rotary conducts the largest independently funded scholarship programs in the world?
With the idea of building goodwill internationally, 673 Ambassador Scholars from 72 countries received Rotary scholarships last year at a cost of $14 million. Since 1939, there has been 39000 of these scholars from 115 countries. Rotary is also educating Peace Fellows with a master’s degree program to create highly competent individuals in the art of mediation and compromise. In the past six years, 339 Peace Fellows have received these scholarships and most are now working in real world jobs that promote peace and understanding.
Did you know that Rotarians engaged in a business or profession consider their vocation an opportunity to serve others?
Rotarians are committed to promote the highest ethical standards in their vocation, to the laws of their country and to the moral standards of their community. As Rotarians, we must be fair and honest in business and we honour and respect all occupations which are useful to society. Out vocational talents are offered to provide opportunities for young people, to work for the relief of the special needs of others and to improve the quality of life in our community.
Did you know that the mission of Rotary International, a worldwide association of Rotary Clubs, is to provide service to others, to promote high ethical standards, and to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through its fellowships of business, professional and community leaders?
Rotary International supports its member clubs in fulfilling the Objects of Rotary by fostering unity among club members; strengthening and expanding Rotary around the world; communicating worldwide the work of Rotary, and providing a system of international administration.
Did you know a wheel has been the symbol of Rotary since Rotary’s early days?
The first design was made by Chicago Rotarian Montague Bear, an engraver who drew a simple wagon wheel with a few lines to show dust and motion. The wheel was said to illustrate ‘civilization and movement’. Most of the early Rotary clubs had some form of wagon wheel on their publications and letterheads. Finally in 1922, it was decided that all Rotary Clubs should adopt a single design as the exclusive emblem of Rotarians. In 1923 a ‘keyway’ was added to the wheel and the design which we now know was formally adopted as the official Rotary International emblem.
Did you know that in parts of our world, less than 30 per cent of the population can read and write?
The Rotary Foundation’s Humanitarian Grants Program is at work throughout the world helping many disparate groups gain life changing literary skills. Foundation grants are providing books, school supplies, computers and other educational equipment. With Foundation support, Rotary clubs are adopting failing schools and helping them to thrive and developing programs using the Concentrated Language Encounter method that has proven so effective in Thailand and many other countries. Literacy opens the doors to employment and economic security. Rotary uses its Foundation Resources to provide that essential key.