Welcome

Rotary started with the vision of one man – Paul Harris.

After setting up his law practice in Chicago, Harris gathered several business associates to discuss the idea of forming an organization for local professionals. He envisioned a place where professionals of diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships.

On February 23, 1905, Harris along with other distinguished gentleman, gathered at an office in Room 711 of the Unity Building in downtown Chicago. This was the first Rotary club meeting.

In February 1907, Harris was elected the third president of the Rotary Club of Chicago, a position he held until the fall of 1908. Toward the end of his club presidency, Harris worked to expand Rotary beyond Chicago. Some club members resisted, not wanting to take on the additional financial burden. But Harris persisted and by 1910 Rotary had expanded to several other major U.S. cities.

Harris died on January 27, 1947, in Chicago at age 78 after a prolonged illness.

His death prompted an outpouring of contributions from around the world and his name continues to evoke the passion and support of Rotarians and friends of Rotary.

Continuing the legacy of our founder, the Paul Harris Fellow program recognizes individuals who contribute, or who have had contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.

This honor was established in 1957 to show appreciation for contributions that support our Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved Foundation grant.