A lifeline for service and impact

The Annual Fund is Rotary’s lifeblood – transforming every Rotarian’s gift into lasting global and local impact.

WORDS Avneet Kaur Bhasin. Rotary Foundation Donor Services Specialist.

Every great movement needs a strong foundation – and for Rotary, that foundation is the Annual Fund. It’s more than just a pool of donations; it’s the fuel that powers Rotary’s mission to create lasting change in communities around the world. From clean water projects in remote villages to scholarships for peacebuilders, the Annual Fund is where generosity meets impact.

A culture of giving: Every Rotarian, Every Year

Imagine the power of 1.4 million Rotarians, each giving what they can, every single year. That’s the heart of the Every Rotarian, Every Year (EREY) initiative. It’s not about how much you give – it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself. When every member contributes, even modestly, the ripple effect is extraordinary.
This culture of giving ensures that Rotary can respond quickly to urgent needs, support long-term development and invest in future leaders. It’s a simple idea with profound results: when everyone gives, everyone gains.

Where the money goes: SHARE, World Fund and Areas of Focus

When you donate to the Annual Fund, you’re not just writing a cheque – you’re shaping the future. The fund is structured to give both global reach and local flexibility.
SHARE: The most popular option. Your donation is split – 47.5 per cent goes to the World Fund, 47.5 per cent to your district’s District Designated Fund (DDF) and five per cent supports administrative costs.

World Fund: Supports Rotary’s highest-priority global programs, including global grants and strategic initiatives.
Areas of Focus: You can choose to support specific causes like peacebuilding, maternal health or education. These gifts count toward club goals but don’t generate DDF.
This structure ensures that your contribution has both immediate impact and long-term value – locally and globally.

District Designated Fund: Local control, global reach

One of the most empowering aspects of the Annual Fund is the District Designated Fund (DDF). After a three-year investment cycle, your district can use its share of the funds to support projects that matter most to local Rotarians.

Districts can:

• Use up to 50 per cent of DDF for district grants.
• Allocate the rest to global grants or donate to causes like PolioPlus, peace programs or disaster relief.

And starting 1 July 2026, any DDF that remains unused for more than five years will be redirected – unless the district specifies otherwise by 30 June 2026. This ensures that funds are always working to make a difference.

Recognition that inspires

Giving to the Annual Fund doesn’t just change lives – it also brings recognition and pride. Your contributions count toward prestigious Rotary honours, including:

• Paul Harris Fellow
• Paul Harris Society
• Major Donor
• Arch Klumph Society

These recognitions celebrate your commitment and inspire others to follow your lead.

Why it matters

The Annual Fund is more than a financial tool – it’s a symbol of Rotary’s shared purpose. It’s how we turn compassion into action, year after year. It’s how we ensure that no community is left behind, and no challenge is too great.

So, whether you give a little or a lot, know this: your gift matters. It builds wells, funds scholarships, trains peacebuilders and brings hope where it’s needed most.