|
|
|
In 1985, Rotary International launched PolioPlus, one of the most ambitious humanitarian programs ever undertaken by a private-sector organization. PolioPlus was the catalyst for the World Health Assembly's resolution in 1988 to eradicate polio. Today, thanks to Rotary's US$500 million commitment and its leadership in mobilizing volunteers, the world is on the threshold of eradicating the poliovirus. Great progress has been made. Fewer than 10 countries still have polio. The number of cases worldwide has decreased 99 percent since 1985. The greatest obstacle to victory is adequate funding. A $275 million shortfall must be overcome in the period 2002-05. For this reason, the RI Board of Directors and the Trustees of The Rotary Foundation have unanimously decided to launch a one-year campaign to help fill the funding gap. The money is needed for vaccine and its delivery through National Immunization Days, and surveillance systems needed to identify remaining pockets of the disease. Each Rotary club is requested to set its own campaign goal. Many plan community fundraisers to help reach the goal. As of mid-August, contributions exceed $5 million. Approximately 35,000 Rotarians world wide are engaged in the campaign leadership team. For more information about the PolioPlus program, click here to visit the PolioPlus pages on the Rotary International web site.
|
|
contact webmaster |
