Rotary and Polio Eradication

Posted by David Ardam 
on Sep 16, 2013
 
Unseen in the U.S. since the 1960's, more than 350,000 people (mostly children) were victimized by the virus every year worldwide until Rotary started on its project to eradicate the disease from the face of the Earth. After more than 20 years of effort (and teamwork with the C.D.C., Unicef, and The World Health Organization), the disease is now endemic in only three countries (Pakistan, Afganistan & Nigeria). Through the tireless efforts of Rotarians and their partners, this year 2013 has seen fewer than 300 new cases world-wide. Through the generosity of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (which donated $455 Million to the eradication efforts) Rotary is closer than ever to achieving its goal of total eradication. The newest Gates grant is a challenge grant, which matches 2 for 1 every dollar Rotarians donate and raise, up to $35 Million per year for three years.  To learn more about the polio disease and Rotary's efforts towards eradication, Click here. If you would like to contribute to this historic effort, please visit The Rotary Foundation and Click Here. For a 30-second video about Rotary's polio eradication efforts, Click Here.