Last Tuesday, the Rotary Club of Joliet kicked off its 2015 Rotary International Foundation drive. Rotary clubs around the world make a special contribution to the Rotary International Foundation which helps further the mission of the club to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, support of education, and the alleviation of poverty worldwide.  
 
Each Rotarian is encouraged to contribute a minimum of $100 each year in support of the Rotary International Foundation. 
 
Our club goal for the 2015 Rotary International Foundation Drive is $12,700, based upon the current membership of 127.  Last year, the Rotary Club of Joliet collected $16,965 through donations from 83 percent participation of the membership. 
 
At last Tuesday’s meeting, two members were acknowledged for their continued generosity in support of the Rotary mission.  Nick Andrew has achieved his Paul Harris +1 and Mike Rittof reached his Paul Harris +2.
 
The Paul Harris Fellow program was initiated to recognize Rotarians who honor their financial commitment to Rotary.  Once a member has reached $1,000 in total donations to the Rotary International Foundation, he or she becomes a Paul Harris Fellow.  The additional numeral (i.e. +1) represents the donation of another $1,000 to the foundation. 
 
“I am proud of Nick and Mike for their dedication to Rotary and their continued financial commitment to the Rotary International Foundation,” said President Bret Mitchell.  “Our club has been able to do great things for many people because of the generosity of our members like Nick and Mike.”

“I encourage all of our members to donate to this year’s Rotary International Foundation drive.  These dollars make a big difference to the lives of people around the world.”