Rotary Day

What Is Rotary Day?

February 23rd is "Rotary Day." On February 23, 1905, attorney Paul Harris and three friends from different professions founded the world's first service club, the Rotary Club of Chicago, in Chicago, USA. The day celebrates the birth of Rotary International, which has since grown into a global network spanning more than 200 countries and regions, and serves as a moment to reflect on the spirit of service.

Where the Name "Rotary" Comes From

The club's name comes from its early practice of rotating meeting locations among members' offices. What began as a fellowship group gradually centered around a core idea of service—putting others' needs ahead of one's own. This day is a chance to look back on how a small circle of friendship grew into a powerful force for social good around the world.

The Global Push to Eradicate Polio

One of Rotary International's most iconic efforts is PolioPlus, a program working to eradicate polio worldwide. Running since 1985, this initiative has brought polio—once a widespread and feared disease—to the verge of complete eradication. Rotary Day is an occasion to share the hope that, when private citizens come together, even global challenges that cross borders can be solved.

Rotary in Japan and Its Contribution to Peace

Rotary first arrived in Japan in 1920. Since then, it has promoted international understanding through programs like youth exchange and supported a wide range of community service activities. Rotary Day is a moment to reflect on how people from different cultures and professions can come together around the shared goal of service, building a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Things to Know About Rotary

• Paul Harris: A Chicago lawyer who felt isolated in the big city. His idea of "fellowship and service" spread around the world.
• The gear (logo): Rotary's symbol—the gear represents continuous motion and the power of working together.
• The Four-Way Test: An ethical guideline created by Rotary member Herbert J. Taylor, translated into more than 100 languages worldwide.
• The Rotary Foundation: A fund supporting humanitarian projects around the world, including education, water and sanitation, and disease prevention.
• Vocational service: Rotary's unique idea that members can contribute to society through their own professions.

One Idea Can Move the World

Rotary Day proves that a single person's sincere motivation can change the world for the better. Paul Harris's simple wish—"I want friends, and I want to help my community"—has been carried forward by 1.2 million members today. On February 23rd, let's plant our own small "seeds of service" and take action that brings a smile to someone's face.

Marking Rotary Day

• Apply the "Four-Way Test" to your own actions today and reflect on whether you've made honest choices
• Learn about efforts like "End Polio Now," working to eliminate polio worldwide
• Find out what your local Rotary club is doing for the community, such as park clean-ups or scholarships
• Take a moment to recognize how your own work or skills help others, and feel proud of it

Friendship as a Bond, Service as a Strength

February 23rd is a day to feel that, beyond differences of nationality, religion, or profession, we are all part of one human family. Doing something for someone else ultimately enriches our own hearts too. May today light a flame of service in your heart, and give you the courage to reach out to someone.