Rotary’s 1st Paul Harris Fellow

On Friday night, November 18, 2016 we will be celebrating the 100th birthday of the Rotary Foundation, OUR Rotary Foundation.  That evening clubs and individuals will be recognizing new Paul Harris Fellows.  Have you ever wondered, who was our first Paul Harris Fellow and when did that recognition take place?

The idea of recognizing a Rotarian who has personally contributed $1,000 or has had a $1,000 contributed in their name occurred in 1957.  That year two Rotarians were recognized as Paul Harris Fellows.  One of those gentlemen was Rufus, also known as “Rough-House,” Chapin, one of Paul Harris’ closest friends.  Chapin joined the Rotary Club of Chicago in 1905 when the club was just a few months old.  He was a banker, who had a great sense of humor.  He gave of his time and talents for many years without hesitation.  In fact, he served treasurer for 33 years.  Some things never change in Rotary!  He died in 1947, so his Paul Harris Fellow recognition was given to him posthumously.

On November 18th, you and members of your club will have the opportunity to name Rotarians, friends of Rotary, community members and/or family members as Paul Harris Fellows.  They will join the ranks of over 3,300 men and women in District 7930 that have also received this recognition and millions who have received this recognition around the world.

That evening we will also hear from author, David C Forward, who wrote Doing Good in the World.  David is currently the Governor of Rotary District 7500 in New Jersey.  He’s been a Rotarian since 1978 and wrote A Century of Service: The Story of Rotary International, that chronicled our first 100 years as an organization.  A very sought after speaker, he will share with us other memorable stories of Rotarians and our Foundation that evening.

Make sure you register today for a fun and informative evening when we celebrate 100 years of our Foundation making the world a better place.