The Paul Harris Fellow Award

Rotary began on 23 February 1905 in Chicago, Illinois, when a young attorney named Paul P. Harris gathered three business acquaintances for what would become the first Rotary meeting. Harris had moved from a close-knit rural community to the bustling city of Chicago and longed to recreate the friendships, trust, and sense of community he had enjoyed in his youth.

The four founders—later affectionately known as the "Boys of 1905"—were:

• Paul P. Harris, an attorney whose vision inspired the movement.

• Gustave Loehr, a mining engineer whose office hosted the very first Rotary meeting.

• Silvester Schiele, a local coal merchant.

• Hiram E. Shorey, a tailor.

The group named their new organisation Rotary because they initially rotated their weekly meetings among the members' offices. These gatherings provided an opportunity for professionals from different backgrounds to exchange ideas, develop friendships, and support one another in both business and community life.

The concept quickly gained momentum. Within a year, the Chicago club had grown significantly and moved to a permanent meeting venue. The idea soon spread to cities across the United States, and by 1910, the National Association of Rotary Clubs had been established.

Rotary's remarkable growth continued at an extraordinary pace. Within just sixteen years, Rotary clubs had been formed on six continents, leading to the creation of Rotary International, one of the world's largest and most respected volunteer service organisations.

As Rotary expanded across the globe, its purpose evolved beyond professional networking. Members recognised that by working together, they could make a lasting difference in their communities and around the world. Service projects, humanitarian programmes, youth development, education, health initiatives, and international understanding became the heart of Rotary's mission.

Today, Rotary unites more than 1.2 million members in over 200 countries and geographical areas, all committed to creating positive and lasting change. From supporting local communities to the global campaign to eradicate polio, Rotarians continue to demonstrate the power of people working together for the common good.

Rotary's enduring motto, Service Above Self, reflects the values that have guided the organisation for more than 120 years. It is a simple yet powerful reminder that the greatest rewards come from helping others, building friendships, and creating opportunities for future generations.

The Rotary Club of St Albans Verulamium is proud to be part of this global family, continuing the tradition of service, fellowship, integrity, and leadership that began with four friends meeting in Chicago in 1905.