Overview

The Object of Rotary is to "encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise."  Rotary is a service organization.  Since 1910, the Rotary Motto has been "Service Above Self."

Rotary strives to achieve it's objective of "Service Above Self" through activities in four primary areas.  These are often referred to as the Five Avenues of Service.

Avenues of Service

Based on the Object of Rotary, the Avenues of Service are Rotary's philosophical cornerstone and the foundation on which club activity is based:

     Club Service focuses on strengthening fellowship and ensuring the effective functioning of the club.

     Vocational Service encourages Rotarians to serve others through their vocations and to practice high ethical standards.

     Community Service covers the projects and activities the club undertakes to improve life in its community.

     International Service encompasses actions taken to expand Rotary's humanitarian reach around the globe and to promote world understanding and peace.

     New Generations Service recognizes the positive change implemented by youth and young adults through leadership development activities, service projects, and exchange programs.

Information on this page came from the following sources:

The Object of Rotary page on the Rotary International web site

The ABCs of Rotary by Clifford L. Dochterman, published by Rotary International.