International Service describes the activities which Rotarians undertake to advance international understanding, goodwill and peace.  This is done through the establishment of a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service. 

 

The spread of Rotary clubs across the globe allows for the concerted Rotary support of humanitarian efforts worldwide.

 

Some International Service activities and programs are:

 

l     Ambassadorial Scholars - Scholarships providing students the opportunity to study in one of almost 200 geographical regions. While abroad, scholars speak at forums where they act as “ambassadors of goodwill” and participate in community service.

 

l     PolioPlus – Launched in 1985, Rotary’s greatest legacy may be its PolipPlus program, which has helped immunize nearly two billion children against polio.  Since then, Rotary’s efforts and those of partner agencies have achieved a 99% reduction in the number of polio cases worldwide. 

 

l     Rotary to Panama – Projects focusing on:  wheelchairs, clean water, literacy, computer lab, school equipment, reforestation, medical supplies and housing.

 

l     Rotary International Conferences – Periodic conferences for Rotarians to share in fellowship, learning and international service.

 

l     The Rotary Foundation Fundraisers – Participate in club, district and international fundraisers to raise fund for The Rotary Foundation, benefiting humanitarian, educational and cultural programs.

 

l     Youth Exchange – Participate in semi-annual Gardena High School program hosting students from Japan.  Club to fund cultural exchange program involving local youth.