Verwood Rotary as part of Rotary International plays a foundational and multifaceted role in the global effort to eradicate polio, having spearheaded the campaign and currently serving as a core partner in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI). This commitment began in 1979 and became a top priority in 1985 with the launch of the PolioPlus program, the first initiative of its kind to tackle global polio eradication through mass vaccination. Rotary focuses its efforts across three main areas: fundraising, advocacy, and on-the-ground volunteer service.
Fundraising and Financial Commitment
Rotary is the leading private-sector donor to global polio eradication. Rotary members worldwide have contributed more than £1.6 Billion and counting to the cause. These funds are vital for operational support, including purchasing polio vaccines, providing transportation and materials for vaccination teams, setting up permanent transit points for mobile populations, and funding essential surveillance and laboratory equipment. A crucial element of Rotary’s financing strategy is its 2-to-1 matching agreement with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, where every dollar Rotary commits to polio is tripled, significantly multiplying the impact of its annual fundraising efforts.
Advocacy and Mobilisation
Beyond funding, Rotary uses its vast global network of 1.4 million members across thousands of clubs to advocate for political and financial support from world governments. This sustained advocacy has played a pivotal role in securing billions of dollars in government contributions to the GPEI. Rotary members actively engage with public officials to ensure polio remains a top global health priority. Furthermore, Rotarians mobilize public awareness through campaigns like “This Close,” which leverages high-profile figures, and by organizing local events on World Polio Day to keep the urgency of the mission in the public eye.