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What is Rotary?

A brief overview


Rotary is a Global Network

Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbours, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

For over 100 years Rotarians have been making a difference in their communities and across the world.

Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to act on our world’s most persistent issues. Our 46,000+ clubs work together within our Areas of Focus.

The greatest example of this is Rotary’s campaign to eradicate the world of polio, a paralysing disease affecting children. In 1985, Rotary pledged to rid the world of the disease, at a time when there were 1,000 cases per day in 125 countries. In 2024, Polio remains endemic in only 2 countries - Afghanistan and Pakistan.

We are People of Action

Closer to home

Rotarians use our knowledge of local issues to identify areas of need, then apply our expertise, skills and talents to develop activities and projects.  These activities can include a wide range of one-off events or ongoing projects.  Examples include helping support foodbanks, arranging Stroke Awareness Days, mentoring Rotakids, developing and maintaining small green spaces, weekly friendship groups, fundraising and much more. 

One of Rotary’s other leading commitments is to offer young people the platforms and opportunities for them to unlock their potential, develop their skills and broaden their horizons.  We have many RotaKids groups in local Primary Schools where, enthusiastic young people have the chance to engage in social action and volunteering in safe and supportive environments.  Young people also have opportunities to take part each year in Rotary’s Youth Competitions. Hosted in a range of creative and academic subjects, the competitions provide young people with an opportunity to develop their skills and showcase their talents.

You can find out more about how Rotarians in Cumbria and Lancashire support their local and global communities by browsing this web site, by looking at our online District Magazine and our District facebook page.

If you are interested in finding out more about opportunities to join us please visit the web pages of Clubs in your area or contact our Membership team via their webpages.