In 1985, Rotary launched the PolioPlus program to protect children worldwide from the cruel and fatal consequences of polio. In 1988, the World Health Assembly challenged the world to eradicate polio. Since that time, Rotary's efforts and those of partner agencies, including the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and governments around the world, have achieved a 99 percent reduction in the number of polio cases worldwide. Rotarians stand at the brink of a great victory and look forward to celebrating the global eradication of polio in 2005, the organization's centennial year.

Polio Eradication Fundraising Campaign - Fulfilling Our Promise: Eradicate Polio

In 1985, Rotary 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 campaign seeks $80 million in cash and pledges during the period 1 July 2002 through 30 June 2003. (Pledges may be paid over a three-year period.)

The money is needed for vaccine and its delivery through National Immunization Days, and surveillance systems needed to identify remaining pockets of the disease.
Up to $25 million of contributions to the campaign will be matched by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The World Bank will provide further support.
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 are engaged in the campaign leadership team.