10/31/2026
Rotary History: Creating Lasting Impact
When Paul Harris founded Rotary in Chicago in 1905, his vision was to bring professionals from different backgrounds together to build friendships and connections.
But Rotary quickly became something more.
In 1907, just two years after its founding, the Rotary Club of Chicago undertook its first community service project, advocating for public comfort stations in the city.
It was an early example of what would become a defining principle of Rotary: bringing people together is important, but what we accomplish together is what truly matters.
Paul Harris understood that Rotary's legacy wouldn't be measured simply by meetings held, friendships formed, or members recruited. It would be measured by the difference Rotary made in the world.
More than 120 years later, that philosophy continues to guide Rotarians around the globe and right here in South Bend.
Create Lasting Impact isn't just our theme. It's been part of Rotary's purpose since the beginning.
And it's a legacy we're proud to carry forward.
Learn more by joining us on Wednesday @ Noon at the Century Center.
