2014 Rotary UN Day: Nov. 1

 

Rotary and the United Nations

SOLD OUT

Contact Bob Johnson for transportation information

 
Rotary and the UN have a long history of working together and sharing similar visions for a more peaceful world. (Shown, is the signing of the UN Charter on June 6, 1945 in San Francisco.)
 
In 1942, Rotary clubs from 21 nations organized a conference in London to develop a vision for advancing education, science, and culture after World War II. That event was a precursor to UNESCO. In 1945, 49 Rotarians went to San Francisco to help draft the UN Charter. Rotary and the UN have been close partners ever since, a relationship that’s apparent through PolioPlus and work with UN agencies.
 
The invitation to Rotary International to participate in the United Nations Conference as consultant to the United States delegation was not merely a gesture of good will and respect toward a great organization. It was also a simple recognition of the practical part Rotary’s members have played and will continue to play in the development of understanding among nations. The representatives of Rotary were needed at San Francisco and, as you well know, they made a considerable contribution to the Charter itself, and particularly to the framing of provisions for the Economic and Social Council.

 

Rotary currently holds the highest consultative status offered to a nongovernmental organization by the UN’s Economic and Social Council, which oversees many specialized UN agencies. Rotary maintains and furthers its relationship with a number of UN bodies, programs, commissions, and agencies through its representative network . This network consists of RI representatives to the United Nations and other organizations.

Each year at Rotary UN Day, more than 1,300 Rotarians - including many Rotary International Directors, Foundation Trustees, past Senior Leaders, and guests - come together at UN Headquarters in New York City.  The program is designed to inspire and educate all participants as well as provide insight into the relationship between Rotary and the United Nations.  In the past, the day has been very successful and has sold out.

The day will begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude by 4:00 p.m.  Lunch will be at 1:00 p.m. in the UN Cafeteria, overlooking the East River.

Rotary Day at the United Nations also includes a special program for youth interested in humanitarian service.  Youth will have the opportunity to hear about a wide range of topics of interest to both Rotary and the United Nations as well as projects that Interact Clubs are working on.  The program begins at 9:30 a.m. and concludes at 12:30 p.m., followed by lunch.