Rotary International and its clubs recognize individuals, clubs, and organizations that go above and beyond in their commitment to service, leadership, and humanitarian work. These awards celebrate the spirit of "Service Above Self" and inspire others to follow in the footsteps of distinguished Rotarians.
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is the most prominent honor presented by The Rotary Foundation. It is awarded to individuals who contribute, or in whose name contributions are made, of $1,000 USD or its equivalent to The Rotary Foundation.
Named after Rotary's founder Paul P. Harris, this recognition was established in 1957 and has since been given to hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide — Rotarians and non-Rotarians alike — who have made significant contributions to humanitarian causes.
Individuals who have contributed a cumulative total of $10,000 USD or more to The Rotary Foundation are recognized as Major Donors. This recognition acknowledges substantial financial commitment to Rotary's humanitarian mission and The Rotary Foundation's programs.
A Benefactor is an individual who has made a bequest or gift of $1,000 USD or more to the Rotary Foundation Endowment Fund. Benefactors ensure the long-term sustainability of Rotary's humanitarian programs by building a permanent financial base.
The Arch Klumph Society is Rotary's most exclusive recognition for donors who contribute $250,000 USD or more to The Rotary Foundation. Named after Arch C. Klumph, the Rotary International president who proposed setting up a Foundation, members of this society are among the most impactful philanthropists in Rotary history.
The Rotary International Presidential Citation is given annually to clubs that demonstrate achievement in support of the current RI President's goals. Criteria typically include member retention, Foundation giving, new member recruitment, service project completion, and public image initiatives. Clubs may earn standard or "with distinction" levels.
RYLA is a leadership training program for young people aged 14–30. Participants attend intensive seminars where they develop leadership skills, learn about Rotary's values, and connect with peers from their community. RYLA graduates are recognized with a certificate and are often invited to present at Rotary club meetings.
The Rotary Youth Exchange program sends students aged 15–19 to live with host families in other countries for a school year or shorter periods. This fosters international understanding and cultural exchange. Participants receive a Certificate of Exchange and lifelong connections around the world.
Rotary clubs sponsor speech contests for high school students based on the principles of the Four-Way Test. Winners at the club level advance to district competitions. Prizes typically include scholarships or cash awards, and winners receive certificates recognizing their achievement and ethical leadership.
Rotary International and district governors recognize outstanding Rotaract clubs and individual members annually. Awards are given for excellence in service projects, membership growth, community impact, and international activities. District-level awards feed into regional and RI-wide recognition.
Within Rotary District 3860 (which includes the Rotary Club of Tacloban), awards are given to recognize outstanding clubs, Rotarians, and projects at the district level:
Interact is Rotary's service club for young people aged 12–18. Interact clubs are recognized annually for outstanding service projects, club growth, and promotion of Rotary values. Awards include:
Rotary's PolioPlus program has been working since 1985 to eradicate polio worldwide. Rotarians who contribute to the PolioPlus Fund or participate in National Immunization Days receive recognition for their contribution to one of the most successful humanitarian campaigns in history.
Special acknowledgment is given to clubs and districts that surpass their PolioPlus fundraising goals, helping bring the world closer to a polio-free future.
"Every award is a story of service — a person who chose to give their time, talent, and treasure for the good of others. In Rotary, that is the highest honor of all."