Founded in Chicago in 1905, Rotary International is the world’s first and the largest volunteer service organization. About 34,000 Rotary clubs in more than 217 countries and geographical areas conduct projects to address today’s challenges — including illiteracy, disease, hunger, poverty, lack of clean water, and environmental concerns — while encouraging high ethical standards in all vocations. Rotary International is the world’s largest private provider of international scholarships, The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International helps more than 1,000 students annually to study abroad and serve as cultural ambassadors.