Journey to Rotary’s Roots – a Visit to Evanston

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Evanston, Illinois—where the global movement of Rotary was born. This trip was a pilgrimage to the very heart of Rotary’s history and mission. It was organized by District 5500 (in Southern Arizona) and an invitation was sent for other Rotarians to join them. I leaped at the chance!

Exploring One Rotary Center

Our journey began at One Rotary Center, the headquarters of Rotary International. Located in the heart of Evanston, this building is more than just an office—it’s the nerve center where ideas are transformed into global initiatives. We attended the Evanston Lighthouse Rotary Club’s meeting, held on the 3rd floor of the building, where Rotarians gather to discuss projects that create lasting change.

Engaging with Rotary International Staff

During our visit, we had the privilege of meeting several members of the Rotary International staff. These conversations were invaluable, providing insights into the current priorities of Rotary and how we can align our district’s goals with the broader mission of Rotary International.

Connecting with Rotary’s Legacy

A highlight of the trip was visiting the home of Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary. Standing in the place where Rotary began over a century ago was a profound reminder of the power of one person’s vision to create a global movement. We also paid our respects at Paul Harris’ gravesite, a moment of reflection on the enduring legacy of service above self.

This trip was more than just a visit to Evanston; it was a journey into the heart of Rotary. It reminded me of why we do what we do and the global impact we can achieve together. In fact, I’m planning on a similar trip for District 5110 in August 2025! Let me know if you’re interested, and I’ll keep you in the loop. We haven’t peaked yet!