Stories
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David spent many years with his Rotary club in Manitoba before retiring to British Columbia. His younger sister had survived polio as a child, and David never forgot the years as a boy spent massaging her atrophied legs and trying to cheer her up. His donation to The Rotary Foundation (Canada) to End Polio, matched 2:1 through Rotary's partnership with the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, has protected 225,000 children under the age of five from contracting the disease.
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Planting Kindness Through RotaryHenk came to Canada at 19 with no family and no friends here, just the promise of opportunity. Over the next half-century he built a florist business, earned more than forty-seven years of perfect Rotary attendance, and called his club family. Before his passing in 2013, he established two endowments at The Rotary Foundation (Canada): one for Basic Education and Literacy, and one for SHARE, which funds projects across every one of Rotary's seven Areas of Focus.
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A Lesson That Lasts: One Teacher’s Gift to LiteracyA quiet Rotarian from British Columbia, Hilda carried a childhood teacher's gift across continents and into her own teaching career in Canada. When she passed in 2021, the endowment she named in her estate plan to The Rotary Foundation (Canada) began funding Global Grants in Basic Education and Literacy every year. A reminder of what a single planned gift can do.
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Two Decades in Costa RicaFor more than 18 years, the Rotary Club of Lethbridge has been quietly transforming communities across Costa Rica. The map of that work tells the story best: 65 communities reached, 23 projects completed, nearly 100,000 lives touched, and a $740,000 CAD impact, most of it powered by Rotary Foundation grants and matched dollars.
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Ripples of Change in GuatemalaDistrict 5550's Ripple Effect Program has brought clean water and sanitation to 24 schools in Guatemala, equipped 16 schools with 256 computers, supported 43 students with scholarships, and saw a $100,000 USD donation matched for $200,000 in combined impact. The work continues, school by school, ripple by ripple.
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From Donation to Impact: A Snapshot of Canadian Rotary Global GrantsEvery Global Grant tells two stories: the project on the ground, and the Canadian Rotarian who made a donation three years earlier and waited while The Rotary Foundation invested it. Here's a snapshot of where those donations have recently flowed: 23 Global Grants across 14 countries on four continents, spanning six Areas of Focus and nine Canadian districts. It's just a slice of the ongoing work, but it shows what TRFC dollars become. |
Hope Beyond Scars: A First for Hungary's ChildrenThere is currently no pediatric CO₂ laser treatment available anywhere in Hungary. A Rotary Global Grant is about to change that, funding a $65,000 specialized laser for Bethesda Children's Hospital in Budapest. The new equipment will help 50 to 99 children every year recover from burn and surgical scarring without repeated operations, and hundreds more over its lifetime. Canadian Rotary support flows through District 6040, alongside partners from Germany, the United States, Singapore, and Hungary itself.
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Safe Water Where Children Take ShelterDuring air raids, 26,000 Ukrainian children file into school bomb shelters — sometimes for hours. This Rotary project installs 65 water fountains with purification systems across Mykolaiv, Poltava, and Zaporizhzhia, ensuring safe drinking water now and serving students for years after the war ends.
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Happy ThanksgivingCelebrating Rotary Canada’s Impact and Thanksgiving SpiritAs clubs across Canada prepare for Thanksgiving service projects, there’s even more to celebrate! Rotary members worldwide exceeded The Rotary Foundation’s US$500 million goal, raising over US$569 million in 2024–25. Canadian clubs have sponsored 65 local and 789 global projects, including a recent initiative supporting First Nations communities in Ontario through water treatment training for Indigenous youth. Canada continues to lead in the fight to end polio, contributing over US$18 million since 2015, and helped surpass the US$2.025 billion Endowment goal. Hosting the 2025 Rotary International Convention in Calgary showcased Canada’s warmth, generosity, and Rotary spirit. |
Rotary Global Grant Strengthens Rehabilitation in Sri LankaRotary Global Grant Strengthens Rehabilitation in Sri LankaSince 2008, Rotary partners have supported the Centre for Handicapped in Kandy, Sri Lanka in expanding rehabilitation services for underprivileged individuals with disabilities. Through this Global Grant, the Centre has strengthened on-site prosthetic limb production, enhanced eye care services, equipped its physiotherapy unit, and invested in modern technology and staff training. Materials for prosthetic manufacturing, diagnostic equipment, laptops, and rehabilitation tools have been provided. In addition, awareness programmes promoting disability inclusion, diabetes prevention, and self-employment have reached hundreds of beneficiaries. |
Celebrate International Legacy Giving Day“We should not live for ourselves alone, but for the joy in doing good for others.’’ – Arch Klumph, 1929 Rotary invites donors to create a lasting legacy by supporting The Rotary Foundation’s Endowment, ensuring future generations can continue making a global impact through life-changing service projects. |
A Night of Inspiration: Reflections from the Vancouver Harbour Dinner CruiseOn September 4th, 35 Rotarians enjoyed a dinner cruise in Vancouver Harbour celebrating their contributions to The Rotary Foundation. Guests included Past RI President Jennifer Jones and Foundation leaders, who shared inspiring stories of impact around the world. Jennifer recounted visiting a Karachi slum to support polio eradication. Tim Schilds highlighted education projects in Malawi, helping girls attend school and build brighter futures. Chris Offer shared environmental initiatives in South Africa improving food security and teaching sustainable practices. Carolyn Ferguson told the story of Hilda Cliffe’s legacy in education. The evening celebrated Rotary’s global reach and lasting humanitarian impact. Le 4 septembre, 35 Rotariens ont participé à une croisière-souper dans le port de Vancouver pour célébrer leurs contributions à la Fondation Rotary. Parmi les invités : l’ancienne présidente du RI, Jennifer Jones, et des dirigeants de la Fondation, qui ont partagé des histoires inspirantes de l’impact du Rotary dans le monde. Jennifer a parlé de sa visite dans un bidonville de Karachi pour l’éradication de la polio. Tim Schilds a présenté des projets d’éducation au Malawi, permettant aux filles d’aller à l’école. Chris Offer a partagé des initiatives environnementales en Afrique du Sud. L’événement a souligné la portée mondiale et l’impact humanitaire durable du Rotary. |
About The Rotary Foundation (Canada)The Rotary Foundation (Canada) (“TRFC”) is a Canadian registered charity, federally incorporated on December 22, 1967. TRFC has an all-Canadian Board of Directors, which meets regularly and makes all decisions in connection with the management and investment of annual fund donations by Canadians. TRFC is supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and friends of The Rotary Foundation, who share our vision of a better world. Among the 27,000 Canadians belonging to 728 Rotary Clubs in Canada, TRFC is a means of donating to projects including the eradication of polio, which Rotary has been a trailblazer for over 40 years – working with and supporting our partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. We focus on projects that promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, sanitation & hygiene, help mothers and children, support educatoin and grow local economies, as well as on Canadian and international disaster and humanitarian relief. Canadian Rotarians are part of a larger international community of 1.4 million Rotarians and 45,000 Clubs around the world, and our members are familiar and proud of the demonstrated impacts of Rotary around the world. Rotary has in the recent past hosted its annual international conventions attended by 30,000 to 35,000 Rotarians from Canada and from around the world in three Canadian cities Montreal (2010), Toronto (2018) and Calgary (2025). Your donations are more important than ever. TRFC remains dedicated to ensure that every child is protected from polio, and that Canadian Rotarians have the access to grants that empower us to change lives and to continue to Do Good In The World. Thank you to all Canadians who have donated and continue to support the Rotary Foundation Canada. |
The ARES ProjectThe ARES Project Providing educational materials for rural schools in Kenya By Sean Hogan Past Governor of Rotary District 5050 (British Columbia, Canada; Washington, USA) Member of the Rotary Club of Pacific Northwest Passport Rotary has been a big part of my life since I joined at age 27. It’s given me friends and opportunities that I would never have had otherwise, including serving as District Governor in 2012-13 (Peace Through Service). One of those opportunities was to be part of Rotary service projects in Kenya, starting in 2009. The project we’ve been doing in Kenya is called ARES (the African Ruggedized Education System), and our philosophy is that if you truly want to change the world, you begin by educating the children. CLICK THE PICTURE FOR MORE |
Canadian Rotary Members Empowered to Make a Global Impact Through TRFCCanadian Rotary Members Make a Global Impact Through TRFC![]() Dear Canadian Rotary Members, Thank you for sharing your concerns about recent United States federal government policies. While we understand that there is concern, we ask that you not let it discourage your vital financial support of The Rotary Foundation Canada (TRFC). As a federally registered charity with an all-Canadian board, TRFC ensures your donations directly benefit Canadians and communities worldwide. Rotary is a non-political, international organization dedicated to making a positive impact, and your donations are now more important than ever. From eradicating polio to promoting peace and community development, TRFC gives Canadian Rotary members access to grants that empower us to change lives and to continue to Do Good In The World. Rotary is truly a global organization. In the past Rotary year alone, The Rotary Foundation awarded funding to clubs, districts and Rotary Peace Fellows in more than 120 countries. You can experience the power of our global network firsthand at this year’s International Convention in Calgary from June 21-25, as we celebrate our collective achievements. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to Service Above Self. Together, we continue to make a difference—locally and internationally. We encourage Canadian Rotarians to continue supporting TRFC, ensuring their donations create a lasting impact both locally and globally. Sincerely, The Board of The Rotary Foundation (Canada) |
Celebrate Foundation Month - Support The Rotary Foundation!Support The Rotary Foundation!Make a gift by donating online, by telephone or by mailing a cheque to The Rotary Foundation (Canada). Your gift will help support Rotary’s vital work in promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and and empowering people and communities.
Thank you for your continued generosity and support. |
Podcast | Truth Behind the Headlines: Rotary’s Perspective on the McEachern Legal Dispute.Podcast | Truth Behind the Headlines: Rotary’s Perspective on the McEachern Legal Dispute |
The truth behind the headlines- Rotary’s perspective on the McEachern’s family dispute legacy.The Truth Behind the HeadlinesWe’re writing to address recent media coverage that has misrepresented an unfortunate legal matter. We encourage you to discuss the following information with members of your club who may have questions or concerns.
At the same time, we are actively engaging with Canadian media to clarify these misunderstandings. If a member of the media contacts you regarding this matter, please refer them to Rotary International’s Media Relations Lead Michael VanDam at Michael.VanDam@rotary.org, so we can ensure clear and consistent communication. First and foremost, let us offer some key facts to clarify some misleading headlines. |
Rotary supports installation of e-bike charging stationsRotary supports the installation of e-bike charging stationsWith the rapidly expanding use of e-bikes and e-scooters the Rotary Club of Ladner, Delta, BC partnered with the City of Delta to install two free e-bike charging stations. A Rotary Foundation District Grant supports the project.
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$151 Million new polio funding$151 Million in NEW Polio fundingThe Government of Canada announces $151 Million in NEW funding to eradicate polio.
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Helping to Preserve Gorillas in AfricaHelping to Preserve Gorillas in AfricaRaemonde Bezenar found her passion in life when she visited Africa in 2007. |
Canadian Positive Peace Activators |
Passionate about our EnvironmentPassionate about our EnvironmentI write this from a sun-filled office in Ancaster, Ontario, the window is cracked open, and the birds are busy filling the air with many melodies. As part of the Niagara Escarpment, we have over 110 waterfalls in the area, and a vast network of hiking trails and ecosystems which led to the designation in 1990 by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, making it one of twelve in Canada.
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Interview with Eva VidaMeet TRF Canada President Eva VidaI have been a Rotarian since 1992. I am a member of the Rotary Club of Winnipeg and have held positions within my Rotary district 5550 and our Rotary Zone, including District Foundation Chair, District Governor, and Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator. I previously served as the VP of TRF Canada and as a board member for several years. |
TRF Canada Annual ReceiptTRF Canada Annual ReceiptThe Rotary Foundation Canada has carefully considered our donors' numerous requests and is changing to an annual receipting process for contributions starting in calendar year 2024. Donors will receive an acknowledgment for every contribution at the time the gift is made. Additionally, in early 2025, one itemized receipt will be provided that includes all contributions made to TRFC in the 2024 calendar year. An annual receipt for gifts made in 2023 will not be provided, as receipts for those contributions will already have been processed. |
Creating hope and alleviating povertyCreating hope and alleviating poverty: |
Vocational Training teams-forging friendships, changing livesVocational Training teams-forging friendships, changing livesThree countries, three Rotary clubs and forty-two years of membership is how Douglas would sum up his Rotary journey. |
An Opportunity To CareAn Opportunity To CareThe holiday season is particularly significant in the area of Disease Prevention and Treatment. We reach out to family and friends wherever they may be to reconnect the caring of health and happiness we have for all. |
Set a Goal and Achieve the GoalSet a Goal and Achieve the GoalThis story began in 2010 with the Rotary Club of Dundas’ Swim to End Polio. Thie Convery, a Dundas resident, splashed in at Niagara-on-the-Lake in August of that year as part of her efforts to support Rotary International’s efforts to end polio in the world.
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Rotary delivers a Fire Rescue Truck to UkraineRotary delivers a Fire Rescue Truck to UkraineRotarians in Southern Scotland have partnered with their counterparts in the US and Canada (District 5050) to deliver a Fire Rescue Truck to the city of Chernihiv in war torn northern Ukraine.
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$800,000 Gift for Polio Eradication$800,000 Gift for Polio EradicationOn March 18, 2022, The Rotary Foundation Canada received a very generous gift of CAN $800,000.00 (US $630,000.00) from the Estate of Marie McGee.
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Supporting Water & Sanitation/HygieneSupporting Water & Sanitation/HygieneWater is essential to life. Each of Rotary's seven Areas of Focus relate to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene. |
Why Consider An Estate Gift To The Rotary Foundation?Why Consider An Estate Gift To The Rotary FoundationLearn why Randy and his spouse Barb have chosen to leave a gift in their estate plans to The Rotary Foundation; electing as one of their choices to support Rotary's work in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene. |
The Rotary Foundation Approves Artaud Ferrier Global Grant Over $490,000The Rotary Foundation Approves Artaud Ferrier Global Grant Over $490,000.00The Trustees of The Rotary Foundation approved a Global Grant of US $490,355.00 to begin a piped water system in the Commune of Ferrier, Haiti. This is the fourth Global Grant so far in the bold, national HANWASH program. |
Dreaming of Local and Global Positive PeaceDreaming of Local and Global Positive Peaceby Christine Rendell and Brian Carnahan - Rotary Club of Calgary East, District 5360 When Brian and I first discussed our Rotary Legacy, the Promoting Peace Area of Focus came to mind immediately. We agreed that without conflict prevention or resolution, many of the projects and programs that Rotary has around the world would be at risk or withdrawn completely. |
The gift of lifeA gift of lifeDecember is the month set aside to reflect on Rotary’s area of focus Disease Prevention and Treatment.
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Interview with Carolyn Ferguson |
The Rotary Foundation Canada receives major estate giftThe Rotary Foundation Canada receives major estate gift“We all have a responsibility to help.” These are the words of Marion when she was asked about the recent legacy gift to the Rotary Foundation Canada from her late husband Keith. |
Demonstrate BenevolenceDemonstrate BenevolenceWhat makes giving an act so blissful that it borders on the mystical, is the intention with which you give. |
What opportunities can you create for aspiring entrepreneurs?What opportunities can you create for aspiring entrepreneurs?PDG Jim Louttit has a suggestion. |
My Polio Eradication JourneyMy Polio Eradication JourneyA number of years ago, a then-District Governor visited our Rotary Club and reminded us that back in 1988 Rotarians made a promise to the children of the world to eradicate polio.
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Growing Local EconomiesGrowing Local EconomiesRI President Shekar recently stated “If you feel the need to reignite the spark of service in yourself or your club, October – Community Economic Development (CED) Month – is a great time to do so”. |
Why my passion is for basic education and literacyWhy my passion is for basic education and literacyTim and Sally Schilds explain their passion for Rotary's Basic Education and Literacy area of focus. |
Eradicating Polio in AfghanistanEradicating Polio in AfghanistanRotary has just 35 members in Afghanistan. They inspire me daily with their courage and perseverance. The polio program has always been politically neutral in every country. Rotary and our partners work with the leaders who are in charge. We now work with new leaders in Afghanistan.
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Water Upgrades in Rural Costa RicaWater Upgrades in Rural Costa RicaFive thousand people in ten communities in South Central Costa Rica enjoyed upgraded water facilities, some for the first time. |
Stories for TRF Canada Website and Social MediaStories for TRF Canada Website & Social MediaThe Rotary Foundation Canada is looking for stories from Canadian Rotary clubs and districts about your local and international Rotary Foundation projects and initiatives.
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TRFC Fifth & Final ReportTRFC Fifth & Final ReportThis final Fifth and final report was prepared for the Government of Canada as a summary of 5.5 years delivering the program. It supports the concept of continuing the partnership with TRFC as a viable partner in doing global grants in the world |
One Million Dollar Donation to the PolioPlus Campaign$1,000,000 Donation to PolioPlusThe board of directors of the Rotary Foundation Canada announced today a donation of US $1,000,000 to the PolioPlus campaign. |
A Goal for Guate IIA Goal for Guate IIInstalling 364 computers to impact over 6,500 students and 300 teachers. |
COVID-19 Isolation Ward in Bhaktapur, NepalCOVID-19 Isolation Ward in Bhaktapur, NepalIn order to keep the hospital safe, an isolation ward needed with the knowledge it could be repurposed after COVID-19 to the benefit of the general population of the hospital |
Restoring Learning Technologies in DominicaRestoring Learning Technologies in Dominica4,000 Chromebooks restore learning technologies in over 60 schools. |
Microcredit - The Gift That Keeps On GivingMicrocredit - The Gift That Keeps On GivingThis project supports 100+ new and existing businesses with a projection of 350 businesses in 3 years. Eight centralized volunteer credit committees serve 19 communities. |
Rotary Positive Peace Activator ProgramRotary Positive Peace Activator ProgramIn order to help make Positive Peace more tangible for Rotaractors and Rotarians, Rotary created the Positive Peace Activator Program. Between 2020 and 2024, 180 new Positive Peace Activators will be trained in six regions around the world. There are four Rotary Positive Peace Activators in Canada who have completed the 20 hour training program and are available to work with clubs and districts.
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Vocational Training Team - Canada to Kenya in 2019This project changed the Canadian and Kenyan teachers' approaches to education for the remainder of their careers and will enrich a generation of children in Canada and Kenya. |

