Supported by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and friends of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation provides humanitarian grants worldwide through innovative programs. The best-known program is PolioPlus, Rotary 's ambitious program to help achieve the global eradication of polio. Other major initiatives include 3-H (Health, Hunger and Humanity) Grants, Matching Grants, and Peace programs.

The Rotary Foundation's oldest educational program is Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarships, the world's largest privately funded scholarship program. The Foundation also awards grants for University Teachers to teach in less-developed nations and enables international exchanges of business and professional people through Group Study Exchange.

From a modest start, Rotary has spread around the world and has almost 1.2 million members. Today, Rotary International, the world's first association of service clubs, fosters fellowship and provides service on every continent.