Object of Rotary, The Four-Way Test, and the Seven Areas of Focus
Object of Rotary
The Object of Rotary is the foundation upon which all Rotary clubs operate. It was formulated in 1910, just five years after the founding of Rotary.
"The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster:"
The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service;
High ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian's occupation as an opportunity to serve society;
The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian's personal, business, and community life;
The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.
Four-Way Test
The Four-Way Test was created by Herbert J. Taylor in 1932 and adopted by Rotary International in 1943. It has been translated into more than 100 languages.
"Of the things we think, say, or do:"
Is it the TRUTH?
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
Seven Areas of Focus
Rotary focuses its efforts on seven areas that represent the most pressing challenges facing communities around the world.
Peace and conflict prevention/resolution
Basic education and literacy
Economic and community development
Disease prevention and treatment
Maternal and child health
Environment
Water and sanitation