The Rotary International Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation that supports the efforts of Rotary International to achieve world understanding and peace through international humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchange programs.  It is supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and friends of the Foundation who share its vision of a better world.

The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International’s sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary “to do good in the world.”  It has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $360 million contributed in 2018-19. Its event-filled history is a story of Rotarians learning the value of service to humanity.

The Foundation’s Humanitarian Programs fund international Rotary club and district projects to improve the quality of life, providing health care, clean water, food, education, and other essential needs primarily in the developing world.  One of the major Humanitarian Programs is PolioPlus, which seeks to eradicate the poliovirus worldwide.  Through its Educational Programs, the Foundation provides funding for hundreds of students to study abroad each year.  Grants are also awarded to university teachers to teach in developing countries and for exchanges of business and professional people.  Former participants in the Foundation’s programs have the opportunity to continue their affiliation with Rotary as Foundation Alumni.  For a wealth of information on current Foundation program awards and financial status see the Rotary Foundation pages on the Rotary International website.

It’s easy for Kirkland Rotarians to contribute to the Rotary Foundation. A check payable to “The Rotary Foundation” can be submitted at a club meeting or mailed to:
 

Rotary Club of Kirkland 
Attention: Rich Bergdahl
P.O. Box 553
Kirkland, WA  98083-0553

 
Rich will complete the Rotary Fund Contribution Form and send it to the Rotary Foundation for any club member or person who wishes to donate through the club. Alternatively, contributors may complete the form and mail it directly to:

The Rotary Foundation
14280 Collections Center Drive 
Chicago, IL 60693

If you mail your check to the Rotary Foundation directly, please send Rich your confirmation of donation so it can be logged into the Rotary Club of Kirkland’s records.
 
Rotary International Foundation Contacts: Rich Bergdahl