Be the End of Polio
Rotary International has played a pivotal role in the global efforts to eradicate polio. Learn about the disease and things Rotary has done to eradicate polio
What is Polio?
Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the poliovirus. It primarily affects children under the age of five. While many infected individuals show no symptoms, a small percentage can develop paralysis, which can be permanent or fatal. There is no cure, but vaccines have been developed that provide effective immunity against the virus. Due to global vaccination efforts, polio has been eradicated from many parts of the world.
How Rotary helps
Rotary International has played a pivotal role in the global efforts to eradicate polio. Here are key contributions:
Fundraising: Since 1985, Rotary has contributed billions of dollars to fight polio through its PolioPlus program.
Advocacy: Rotary members have advocated at all levels of government and society to gain support and funding for polio eradication.
Awareness: Rotary has raised awareness about polio eradication through public relations efforts and events, reaching a vast audience globally.
On-the-Ground Support: Rotary members have volunteered in support roles during National Immunization Days to help administer vaccine drops to children.
Partnerships: Rotary played a key role in forming the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988, partnering with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and more recently, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Matching Grants: In partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Rotary has agreed on matching grants, amplifying the funding dedicated to eradicating polio.
Through these contributions, Rotary International has been instrumental in reducing the number of polio cases by over 99.9% since the start of their campaign.
Every year, we hold various fundraising events to help keep polio at bay. It’s a devastating disease that can be eradicated by a simple vaccine, but distributing the vaccine takes time.
This year we have a special screening of the film Napoleon.
Visit our booking page to buy tickets
Members Spotlight
Rotary Member Spotlight: Making a Difference in Timor-Leste . We're thrilled to shine the spotlight on our incredible member, Laura Camphuis! Laura recently embarked on an inspiring journey to Timor-Leste, where she dedicated her time and passion to facilitate the Rotary program known as RYPEN.
Rotary Member Spotlight: Laura Camphuis - Making a Difference in Timor-Leste
We're thrilled to shine the spotlight on our incredible member, Laura Camphuis! Laura recently embarked on an inspiring journey to Timor-Leste, where she dedicated her time and passion to facilitate the Rotary program known as RYPEN.
🌱 What is RYPEN?
RYPEN, which stands for Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment, is a transformative initiative that has been running since 2007. It's all about empowering teenagers and young adults, helping them develop crucial life skills, leadership qualities, and a sense of purpose.
A Life-Changing Opportunity In Timor-Leste, the impact of RYPEN is profound. Every year, 60 bright young minds are sponsored into this program. What's truly remarkable is that over 1000 young teens apply for this opportunity annually! The people of Timor-Leste are immensely grateful to have this chance, and they value the RYPEN course as highly as a university degree.
A Ticket to a Bright Future The benefits of RYPEN don't end with graduation. Workplaces highly value RYPEN graduates, recognizing their leadership potential and the valuable skills they bring to the table. For these young adults, it's not just about getting a job; it's about contributing to their community and making a lasting impact.
Laura's dedication to this program is a shining example of the Rotary spirit - making a positive difference where it's needed most. We're immensely proud to have Laura as part of our Rotary family!