Pekin Rotary
Since 1987, the Pekin Rotary Club has been a steadfast supporter of Rotary International’s PolioPlus initiative, a global effort to eradicate polio. Launched in 1985, PolioPlus has made a lasting impact through mass vaccination campaigns, helping immunize more than 2.5 billion children in 122 countries. Rotary has contributed over $2 billion to this cause, making it the first and largest private-sector initiative of its kind.
Pekin Rotary’s contributions began with a remarkable fundraising campaign, generating nearly $10,000 from club efforts. In a heartwarming turn of events, a client of a Rotary member, moved by the club’s dedication to eradicating polio, contributed an additional $8,000. This local support mirrors the global advocacy that has seen Rotary’s efforts inspire governments and donors worldwide to contribute over $10 billion to the cause.
The ongoing relevance of PolioPlus was highlighted recently in Gaza, where a baby boy was diagnosed with polio. Amidst the conflict, both sides agreed to an 8-hour daily ceasefire in pre-specified areas to allow a critical vaccination program to proceed. In just the first three days, approximately 187,000 children received the life-saving vaccine, with no violations of the ceasefire reported. This extraordinary moment underscores the power of global cooperation and the importance of Rotary’s mission, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
The “Plus” in PolioPlus signifies more than just vaccinations—it includes broader public health initiatives like providing clean water, hand-operated tricycles, bed nets, and soap to underserved communities. Pekin Rotary is proud to be part of this transformative effort, working alongside global partners like the Gates Foundation and supporting door-to-door volunteer efforts.
Through their dedication, the Pekin Rotary Club has played a small but vital role in helping move the world closer to eradicating polio. Their efforts align with Rotary’s core mission of improving health and enhancing lives on a global scale.