A Century of Service - Week of August 6, 2007

Rotary - A Century of Service

Rotary International, the world’s first service organization, was founded by Paul Harris in 1905. Within a few years after that founding, Rotary had grown immensely and had become a powerful force for world peace and service to humanity. “Rotarians not only sensed that they had an organization in which they could enjoy fun and fellowship, but also were beginning to believe they could make the world a better place.”

Ethics and service became a large part of Rotary’s policy even in the early years. “During the worst days of World War II, Rotarians in England convened a conference on education and cultural exchange, and that meeting subsequently led to the formation of UNESCO, one of the agencies of the United Nations. When the UN charter was signed, Rotarians were serving as ambassadors and ministers, captains of industry, and religious leaders of all faiths.”

Some characteristics and principles have been paramount to Rotary’s success through the years. Rotarians maintain a commitment to tolerance, high ethical standards, fellowship among members, community service – especially toward children – and world peace.

Rotary shares is the international theme for this year, and Rotarians have shared their time and efforts since the first club was founded. They continue to share their time and efforts to serve their communities today.

For more information about Rotary and how you might join us, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

(With excerpts from A Century of Service by David C. Forward)