The foundation, Mike said, is an international, not profit organization that collects donations which go into an annual fund each year and the money is invested for 3 years. At the end of the 3-year period, RI distributes every dollar that is taken in. In the past, the fund totaled $100M and was used for various Rotary projects around the world.

The eradication of polio in the world has been one of the primary focuses of the foundation, Mike said. Digging wells in an effort to supply fresh water has also been another cause supported by the RI Foundation. The education of World Peace Scholars is yet another program the foundation supports. Other programs include: peace and conflict resolution, disease prevention and treatment, maternal & child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community involvement.

Mike said that within our club are strong supporters every year of the foundation. “It’s not about the money but what the money can do.” Mike explained what a Paul Harris Fellow is for the newer members. It is recognition of members who give $1,000 a year. Members who give year after year receive special pins with rubies and sapphires signifying their total giving.

Mike said that our goal as a club relative to contributions to the foundation annually is $5,400 equating to about $8 and some odds cents per month. Thus far this year, we have raised $2,920. This fiscal year ends June 30th. It’s important that we meet this goal so that our club will be eligible to apply for grants through District 6400. One such program that has been funded by a district grant is the current Fluency Friends at Michener Elementary School here in Adrian.

Mike also gave members an idea what each of our $100 a year contributions would provide: 3 back packs with school supplies for kids in Honduras, or 50 malaria diagnostic tests, or one bio water hygiene training for a family of three. Ways to contribute include: Rotary Direct (rotary.org/give) using your credit or debit card on a monthly, quarterly on annual basis. Mike said he also had forms members could fill out and send it. You could also just simply give Mike a check made out to “The Rotary Foundation”.

Additional information sent to me by our Secretary Allen: Signing up for automatic contributions from a credit/debit card or even a transfer from your bank account is very easy.  First, contact me to get your Rotary ID #. Then, just search for the Rotary International web-site. Go to the "My Rotary" area.  Sign In/Enroll.  Then "Create Account".  Once you are logged in, you can set up your donation schedule.

 

I think this is a good time for a reminder.  There are TWO foundations.  International and our own Adrian Rotary Foundation.  The current balance in our Adrian Foundation is around $330,000.  Of that, our club can use a little over $16,000 per year specifically for LOCAL projects. The more we can grow our Foundation, the more our Club can benefit the local community in the future.  

 

As a member of the Adrian Rotary Club, you are encouraged to give at least $100/year to each foundation.  Being a Rotarian is about giving your Time, Treasure and Talent.  Most of us can do more in some areas than others.

(NOTE: Please see the RI Foundation Chair's message for April below)