Empower Communities with Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC

Where Local Hands
Build a World of
Difference

Together, we can foster peace, fight disease and build healthier communities. Join a mission that has been enriching lives in our Nation's Capitol since 1922. Know that 100% of your generous donation serves local communities and families.

DC Rotary Team in action | Charity activities in the DMV by Rotary Foundation of DC | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC
DC Rotary Team in action | Charity activities in the DMV by Rotary Foundation of DC | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Empower Communities with Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC

Where Local Hands
Build a World of
Difference

Together, we can foster peace, fight disease and build healthier communities. Join a mission that has been enriching lives in our Nation's Capitol since 1922. Know that 100% of your generous donation serves local communities and families.

Who We Are

Our Mission

Through charitable giving, we support our Club and its partners in their service activities with vulnerable populations, in our community and around the world, working together at the grass-roots level to foster economic opportunity, justice and equity, education and literacy, health, and a sustainable environment.

Independent Organization PNG Icon | Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Independent

The DC Rotary Foundation is an independent non-profit organization that provides small grants both locally and internationally.

Interconnected with Rotary Clubs | Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Interconnected

We are part of the global Rotary International, a global network of more than 1.4 million service-minded citizens who donate their time, money and expertise to solve the world’s most pressing challenges.

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Steadfast

Guided by a sound investment policy and the generosity of Rotarians and service-minded Washingtonians, our endowment has grown steadily for more than a century.

Local to Washington DC PNG Icon | Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Local

90% of our grants go to organizations in the National Capitol region, ensuring you see the benefits of your philanthropy right here in your backyard.

The Five Pillars of Our Giving

No Challenge is too big for us

For more than a century, we've bridged cultures and connected continents. The Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC reimagines Rotary International's seven areas of focus through locally-led projects that empower our hometown and play out on a global stage.

 

Our Five Pillars: Crafting Tomorrow’s DC


Fueling Prosperity in Every Corner of DC

We strive to answer the call for economic empowerment by providing job training, supporting small businesses, and fostering entrepreneurship to fuel economic growth and individual success in Washington, DC.


Championing
Equal Rights for All

Our mission is to dismantle barriers and promote equality, ensuring that every resident of DC has access to justice and the opportunity to live a life of dignity and respect.


Unlocking Potential
Through Learning

We target the goal of universal education by enriching literacy programs and educational opportunities, equipping the youth and adults of DC with the tools for a brighter, more informed future.


Ensuring a
Healthy Community

In response to the essential need for accessible healthcare, we initiate and support wellness programs, health education, and services that prioritize both physical and mental well-being for all.


Preserving Our World
for Tomorrow

We take on the challenge of environmental sustainability head-on, engaging in projects that protect natural resources, promote green practices, and create a more sustainable Washington, DC.

What We Do

Small Grants, Big Impact

As one of Washington, DC's most enduring charitable institutions, we have the expertise and networks to effectively fund grassroots organizations. Our small grants empower promising local initiatives and volunteer projects that might be overlooked by other donors. A donation to the Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC means investing in the potential of your community.

Our commitment to local change is reflected in the types of grants we offer, designed to empower and uplift the community

International
Grants

No more than 10% of total giving, divided between two grant types: 

Rotary Global Grants pool funds from the DC Rotary Foundation and other Rotary Clubs to fund large-scale humanitarian projects, scholarships and vocational training. Rotary International's global fund The Rotary Foundation (TRF) selectes projects, with budgets from $30,000-$400,000

The DC Rotary Foundation directly funds international small grants up to $5,000 for sustainable humanitarian projects that involve a local Rotary Club partner close to the community being served. 

Community Service
Grants

Our grants, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per organization, are tailored for small capital needs or seed money for special services, primarily within the District of Columbia. These funds are designed to directly and tangibly benefit communities, supporting projects with clear needs and potential for positive impact.

Significant grants, reaching up to $20,000, are dedicated to supporting larger, sustainable, and impactful projects. These grants offer Rotary members opportunities for volunteerism and community engagement, while also aiming to raise the profile of both the organization and Rotary within the DC community.

Foundation Special
Grants

The Foundation Special Grants offer an opportunity for exceptional funding allocations to projects and organizations with unique affiliations or circumstances.

These grants, exemplified by the $100,000 Centennial Grant and similar initiatives, are tailored to commemorate former members or acknowledge special connections to the foundation.

Community Service grants - Rotary Foundation Projects DC | Rotary Club Foundation of DC


Community Service Grants

Our grants, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per organization, are tailored for small capital needs or seed money for special services, primarily within the District of Columbia. These funds are designed to directly and tangibly benefit communities, supporting projects with clear needs and potential for positive impact.

Significant grants, reaching up to $20,000, are dedicated to supporting larger, sustainable, and impactful projects. These grants offer Rotary members opportunities for volunteerism and community engagement, while also aiming to raise the profile of both the organization and Rotary within the DC community.

Community Service grants - Rotary Foundation Projects DC | Rotary Club Foundation of DC
Foundation Special Grants | Rotary Global Projects DC | Rotary Club Foundation of DC


Foundation Special Grants

The Foundation Special Grants offer an opportunity for exceptional funding allocations to projects and organizations with unique affiliations or circumstances.

These grants, exemplified by the $100,000 Centennial Grant and similar initiatives, are tailored to commemorate former members or acknowledge special connections to the foundation.

International Service Grants DC | Rotary Club Foundation of DC


International Grants

No more than 10% of total giving, divided between two grant types: 

Rotary Global Grants pool funds from the DC Rotary Foundation and other Rotary Clubs to fund large-scale humanitarian projects, scholarships, and vocational training. Rotary International's global fund The Rotary Foundation (TRF) selected projects, with budgets from $30,000-$400,000

The DC Rotary Foundation directly funds international small grants of up to $5,000 for sustainable humanitarian projects that involve a local Rotary Club partner close to the community being served. 

International Service Grants DC | Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Meet Our Grantees

Through our Community Service Grants, your gift empowers remarkable organizations that go beyond immediate relief to foster long-term growth and resilience in communities. 

Plant a Tree

Enduring Tributes Grow Here

Honor your loved one with a living, breathing monument through our Trees for the Capital program. When you plant a tree with us, you receive a certificate recognizing your gift with the GPS coordinates of the tree's location. 

Plant a Tree

Enduring Tributes Grow Here

Honor your loved one with a living, breathing monument through our Trees for the Capital program. When you plant a tree with us, you receive a certificate recognizing your gift with the GPS coordinates of the tree's location. 

Independent & Interconnected

The Benefits of Our Relationship with
Rotary Foundation International

The Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC leverages Rotary International's global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends and leaders who volunteer their skills and resources to tackle the world's most pressing challenges — both here in our Nation's Capitol and around the world.

A gift to the DC Rotary Foundation offers the best of both worlds: The DC Rotary Foundation selects and manages grants and oversees its endowment with total independence, which means donors benefit from a close and immediate connection with our generous donors.

The Rotary Foundation International lends its global convening power, and contributes its pooled funds to our international projects — ensuring that every dollar we spend overseas enjoys a multiplier effect. 
 

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Your donation to the Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC ignites local initiatives and fuels community growth.
Every contribution sows seeds for lasting change and tangible benefits across our city.

With a track record dating back to 1922, you can rest easy knowing that every dollar you give achieves lasting impact today and tomorrow.

Letter from the President

A Heartfelt Thank you from Our President

Thank you for paying us a visit and considering a contribution to our remarkable organization.

We hope you will join over a century of transformative change through your donation. With Rotary, every donation catapults us towards a brighter future.

Together, we create colossal change. Your generosity propels the movement that transcends boundaries, fostering an interlinked globe where change begins within our own neighborhoods and radiates outward. By donating, you're joining a legacy of empowerment, extending far beyond our individual selves.

Gift a donation today. Be part of a lasting movement of service, volunteerism and progress. Each act of generosity reaffirms our shared commitment to sustained change. Together, let's create a lasting legacy, one donation at a time.

Marilyn Nevy Cruz

Marilyn Nevy Cruz

Head of The Foundation

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Donate Now

Support Our Mission

Make a Difference in Washington, DC and Beyond

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Discover How to give back

Begin
Your
Legacy
Giving
Journey

Will
Bequests

Designate a portion of your estate to support our mission, empowering our community work.

Non-Cash
Donations

Donate real estate or other assets
for tax benefits while advancing
our causes.

Beneficiary
Designation

Support our work by naming us in retirement plans, insurance policies,
and annuities.

IRA
Contributions

If you're 70.5 or older, donate up to $100,000 yearly from your IRA to
aid our efforts.

Take the first step in leaving a meaningful legacy today. Contact us at office@dcrotaryclub.org to learn how you can make a lasting difference through legacy giving with the Rotary Foundation of DC.

Discover How to give back

Begin
Your
Legacy
Giving
Journey

Will Bequests

Designate a portion of your estate to support our mission, empowering our community work.

Non-Cash Donations

Donate real estate or other assets
for tax benefits while advancing
our causes.

Beneficiary Designation

Support our work by naming us in retirement plans, insurance policies,
and annuities.

IRA Contributions

If you're 70.5 or older, donate up to $100,000 yearly from your IRA to
aid our efforts.

Take the first step in leaving a meaningful legacy today. Contact us at office@dcrotaryclub.org to learn how you can make a lasting difference through legacy giving with the Rotary Foundation of DC.

A century of success SVG Icon | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC

A Century of Success

A Century of Success

Our proven track record of philanthropy dates to 1922.

Grassroot Giving Charity in DC Washington SVG Icon | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Grassroots Giving

Grassroots Giving

We invest in local initiatives too small for other foundations, which means you're investing in the next generation of DC's change makers.

Maximum Impact, Minimum Overhead

Maximum Impact, Minimum Overhead

Our all-volunteer leadership team ensures your generosity funds meaningful projects, not administrative costs.

Rotary Club International Connections and Network SVG Icon | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Rotary as Force Multiplier

Rotary as a Force Multiplier

We leverage the resources, influence and expertise of Rotary International's vast global network, which gives your donation maximum impact—while still staying local.

Why Donate to Rotary

Transforming Your
Contributions into
Global Solutions

With over 100 years of history, Rotary has a longstanding record of making meaningful changes in communities in Washington, DC and around the world. Your donation becomes part of this legacy.

Your donation makes a real difference.

When you donate to Rotary, you become part of something bigger – a movement that brings about positive change and offers personal and professional rewards.

A century of success SVG Icon | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC

A Century of Success

A Century of Success

Our proven track record of philanthropy dates to 1922.

Grassroot Giving Charity in DC Washington SVG Icon | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Grassroots Giving

Grassroots Giving

We invest in local initiatives too small for other foundations, which means you're investing in the next generation of DC's change makers.

Maximum Impact, Minimum Overhead

Maximum Impact, Minimum Overhead

Our all-volunteer leadership team ensures your generosity funds meaningful projects, not administrative costs.

Rotary Club International Connections and Network SVG Icon | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC

Rotary as Force Multiplier

Rotary as a Force Multiplier

We leverage the resources, influence and expertise of Rotary International's vast global network, which gives your donation maximum impact—while still staying local.

The Rotary Foundation International White PNG Logo | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC
Charity Navigator Score 4 | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC
92% Charity Statistic | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC
90 of 100 Charity Navigator Score | The Rotary Club Foundation of DC
How To Give

Empower Change Together

Whether you are a Rotarian or a citizen committed to change, we make it easy and transparent to contribute. You can donate electronically through our website, send a check or speak to our leadership team. Whichever way you choose, your support is crucial and highly valued.

... I just want to say thank you to the Rotary Club (of Washington DC) for giving us the funds to allow us to continue to do the wonderful things that we are doing with our members in the community.
1905 - 2024

Our Foundation's Rich History

The Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC enjoys a rich history dating back to 1905 with the founding of the first Rotary Club in Chicago. That legacy of professional exchange, friendship and visionary service fuels our ongoing commitment to local service and global impact. 

1905

The Beginning of
a Global Movement

The story of Rotary began with a singular vision from Paul Harris, a Chicago attorney who aspired to create a space where professionals of diverse backgrounds could come together. On 23 February 1905, the Rotary Club of Chicago was born, marking the start of what would become a worldwide movement of service and camaraderie.

1917 - 1922

Expanding Vision &
Humanitarian Service

What started as a forum for exchanging ideas and building friendships gradually evolved into a global force for humanitarian service. In 1917, Rotary proposed an endowment “for the purpose of doing good in the world.” In 1922, the Rotary Club of DC established one of the first-ever Rotary foundations.

1922 - 2023

A Century of
Global Service

For more than a century, Rotary members have consistently demonstrated a commitment to addressing challenges both within their local communities and around the world. This rich history of service is the foundation upon which we continue to build and grow. This legacy of dedicated service has fueled our ongoing commitment to fostering positive change and global impact.

1905

The Beginning of
a Global Movement

The story of Rotary began with a singular vision from Paul Harris, a Chicago attorney who aspired to create a space where professionals of diverse backgrounds could come together. On 23 February 1905, the Rotary Club of Chicago was born, marking the start of what would become a worldwide movement of service and camaraderie.

1917 - 1922

Expanding Vision &
Humanitarian Service

What started as a forum for exchanging ideas and building friendships gradually evolved into a global force for humanitarian service. In 1917, Rotary proposed an endowment “for the purpose of doing good in the world.” In 1922, the Rotary Club of DC established one of the first-ever Rotary foundations.

1922 - 2023

A Century of
Global Service

For more than a century, Rotary members have consistently demonstrated a commitment to addressing challenges both within their local communities and around the world. This rich history of service is the foundation upon which we continue to build and grow. This legacy of dedicated service has fueled our ongoing commitment to fostering positive change and global impact.

Discover more about our journey from a single club in Chicago to a global community dedicated to making a difference.

Rotary International

A global network of service before self

The Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC benefits from a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, and leaders who volunteer their skills and resources to solve issues and address community needs.

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Rotary Clubs