What is Rotary?
Rotary's purpose is service and we aspire to make a positive difference in our local community through volunteer activities. We also support Rotary's work around the world and link with other clubs to tackle important issues at home and abroad in issues such as:
Supporting children in need
Fighting poverty and hunger
Protecting the environment
Improving health and education
Our motto: Service Above Self
Rotary is the world’s largest service organisation and has over 1.2 million members, over 45,000 clubs and a presence in around 200 countries.
It is made up of autonomous, independent clubs that form a global association called Rotary International.
Whether we’re chatting with neighbours at an open‑air concert on the Tonbridge Castle lawn or listening to inspiring speakers at our weekly meetings, Rotary brings together people who want to use their experience, skills and enthusiasm to create positive change.
Our members come from all walks of life — different professions, backgrounds, and cultures — but we’re united by a shared commitment to helping others.
Rotary clubs are non‑political, non‑religious, and open to everyone who wants to contribute to their community.
One of Rotary’s proudest achievements is its leadership in the global effort to eradicate polio through the PolioPlus programme, which has helped reduce cases by 99% worldwide.