What Is Rotary?

Rotary is a global network of community volunteers. There are a LOT of benefits to being a Rotarian. Friendship, Business Development, Personal Development, Family programs and so much more.

The Rotary Club of Elmira is a dynamic service organization for corporations, small businesses, non-profits, and civic leaders who want to make a difference in our community. We are always looking for ways to support our community—for positive, sustainable change in the greater Elmira area—while extending our impact on advances in health, education, leadership, environment, understanding, peace, and alleviation of poverty in the community and around the world.

Since our founding more than 100 years ago in 1916, the Elmira Rotary Club has spearheaded or provided funding for vital projects for our community. Current service projects include a partnership with Diven Elementary School; staffing for our local Community Kitchen; Camp STAR; and the M. Edward Lincoln Youth Salute awards program, which honors high school students.

Past projects have included:
- The Reconstruction Home, a residential facility for treating children with polio.
- Capabilities, a sheltered workshop, and a training facility for our disabled citizens.
- Glove House, a residential facility for troubled youths.
- The YMCA and YWCA
- The Arctic League, which provides toys and clothes to local needy families.
- All Kids' Playplace, the area's first handicapped-accessible playground.

Rotary is more than just community service. It is also fellowship and leadership development. Through the years our club also has boasted a “who’s who” of the ‘The Queen City’ – leaders from every sector of the community: business and industry, education, human services, government, and more.

Today, our members’ volunteer spirit, generosity, and commitment to community service remain vibrant and strong. Through Rotary, we strive to achieve our mission of enriching the lives of our youth, people with disabilities, and of our world neighbors.

In addition to community service, networking, and our weekly meetings, we also have fun and engaging social events. If you are interested in joining us for a community service project, visiting us at one of our weekly meetings (in person or via Zoom), or being a speaker or presenter at our Rotary Club, please Direct Message or email us.

The Rotary Club of Elmira is part of Rotary International, which is composed of more than 35,000 clubs with more than 1.2 million members worldwide.

This is an open invitation to you. Come join us at our regular Tuesday lunch or at our monthly evening social.