Awareness & Fundraising

World Polio Day

Anywhere you like!

24 Oct 2025

Free Event

What…

World Polio Day is a time for Rotary members, public health advocates and all who want a world free from polio to come together, recognise our progress in the fight to end polio, and talk about the actions we need to take in order to end polio for good.

All donations are matched 2:1 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, tripling your impact!

Where…

Anywhere you like! The only limitation is your imagination.

More information…

Event Ideas

  • End Polio Now train rides: Join one of the End Polio Now train rides – like the Sydney, Auckland or Brisbane to Gold Coast train ride – which involve Rotary members travelling the train, tram and/or ferry network, visiting stations and engaging with the public to promote the campaign.
  • Landmark light-ups: Illuminate public buildings, bridges or monuments in red with ‘End Polio Now’ signage.
  • End Polio walk or run: Host a community walk or fun run with participants wearing red shirts or End Polio Now merchandise.
  • Community art installations: Commission murals chalk art or red ribbon displays in public spaces to spark conversations.
  • School outreach programs: Partner with local schools for classroom talks, assemblies or student poster competitions around polio awareness.
  • Guest speaker events: Invite medical professionals, polio survivors or Rotary polio ambassadors to speak at local events or town halls.
  • Library or museum exhibits: Collaborate on a temporary exhibit highlighting the history of polio and Rotary’s role in its eradication.
  • Polio purple pinkie day: Raise funds by inviting students or community members to donate gold coins to have their pinkie fingers painted purple – symbolising polio vaccinations.
  • Trivia or bingo night: Host a fun, themed night with entry fees or donations supporting End Polio Now.
  • Charity auction or raffle: Gather local business support to donate items or experiences for a community auction.
  • End Polio Now breakfast or dinner: Host a Rotary meal event with polio-themed storytelling, fundraising raffles and guest speakers.