Doing Good in the World

The inspiring story of The Rotary Foundation's first 100 years.

18 June 1917.

As World War I rages, members of the 12-year-old Rotary gather for their annual convention. Rotary President Arch Klumph makes a suggestion of lasting impact: “We should accept endowments for the purpose of doing good in the world.”

A century later, The Rotary Foundation supports humanitarian projects undertaken by Rotary members worldwide. It is what enables them to alleviate poverty, improve health, expand education, and promote peace.

Doing Good in the World tells the whole fascinating story: the story of Arch Klumph, a man determined to realize his dream; of the thousands of Rotarians who built The Rotary Foundation; of the millions whose lives have been transformed by it. If you’ve wondered how Rotarians began their global battle against polio or why they established the Rotary Peace Centers, you’ll find the answers here.

You’ll meet dozens of inspirational figures — from visionary leaders to ordinary Rotary members bringing a better life to communities worldwide.