Deep-rooted collaboration in the fight against polio
Joint efforts between Rotary and PAHO have helped make the Americas the first region in the world to be certified polio-free and maintain the achievement over the years.
The Pan American Health Organization and Rotary have been working together for more than 25 years for the elimination of polio in the Region of the Americas. As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary has led a global initiative focused on ridding the world of the disease for 30 years now, which has already resulted in the reduction of polio cases by 99.9% since its first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979.
Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million people across the globe whose members believe they have a shared responsibility to take action together to promote peace, fight disease, save mothers and children, support education, provide clean water, promote sanitation and hygiene, and grow local economies. Through their 35,000+ clubs, the organization provides service to others through their fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.
Both at regional and country level, Rotary has been a key partner for PAHO in the elimination of poliomyelitis since the beginning of the 1980s. Through the provision of funds used to implement vaccination campaigns – including in the most remote areas – participation in regional meetings, and active work in countries of the Region, Rotarians have supported PAHO in being the first region in the world certified free of the disease, in 1994, and maintaining this status now.
Persistent and passionate dedication for ambitious results
Rotary has inaugurated and influenced global and regional initiatives in support of polio eradication. In 1989, donations reached up to USD 27 million and supported 27 countries in the Americas. Rotary has also headed the initiative to mobilize several other organizations and institutions that are now part of this movement, such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s matching fund contribution since 2007.
Rotary was a pioneer in the fight against polio and started efforts in 1978 with a very ambitious goal to reach a polio-free world. Rotarians have upheld the Region over the most challenging times, including financial and political crises. Rotary members have been permanently present in all countries of the Region since 1981 and have played a fundamental role in this long-lasting collaboration with PAHO.
Cooperation between PAHO and Rotary is a solid partnership that goes far beyond traditional financial support, involving the personal enthusiasm and commitment of Rotarians. The organization uses its networks and coordination to participate in local and regional meetings, exchange knowledge, and organize different sorts of events to mobilize funds and efforts, with a day-to-day presence and passionate dedication to this mission in each and every Rotarian district and club.
Rotary has been a true partner to PAHO in keeping the Region free of polio for almost 30 years. The organization constantly demonstrates its will to further strengthen the relationship so as to tackle upcoming challenges, thus maintaining focus to fight together until global eradication is achieved.
