The Paul Harris Fellow Award is one of Rotary International’s most prestigious recognitions. Named after Rotary’s founder, Paul Harris, it honors individuals who have made significant contributions to humanitarian efforts, promoting peace and improving the lives of others. Since its inception in 1957, the Paul Harris Fellow Award has symbolized Rotary’s enduring commitment to service and philanthropy.

The Paul Harris Fellow recognition was established in honor of Paul P. Harris, who founded Rotary in 1905 in Chicago. His vision was to create a professional networking club focused on fellowship and community service. Over time, Rotary evolved into a global movement committed to addressing social issues like poverty, education, health, and peace.

In 1957, Rotary introduced the Paul Harris Fellow Award to recognize individuals who contribute significantly to Rotary’s philanthropic arm, The Rotary Foundation. It was initially awarded to individuals who donated $1,000 or more to the Foundation’s programs, including disease prevention, education, and clean water access initiatives. Over the years, the recognition has expanded to honor those who have made substantial service contributions through direct donations or exceptional volunteer work.

Being named a Paul Harris Fellow is a significant honor within the Rotary community. The award represents a contribution to Rotary’s mission and a commitment to the values of “Service Above Self.” Paul Harris Fellows are recognized for their dedication to improving lives, both locally and globally, through humanitarian efforts.

When someone is named a Paul Harris Fellow, they receive a certificate, a medallion, and a lapel pin, signifying their outstanding contributions. The award is not limited to Rotarians—non-Rotarians who embody the spirit of Rotary through their charitable work or leadership in humanitarian causes are also eligible to receive this prestigious recognition.

While the award initially focused on contributions to The Rotary Foundation, it has evolved to include a broader range of recognitions. Individuals who continue to donate or provide additional service after becoming a Paul Harris Fellow can earn multiple levels of recognition. These are indicated by different combinations of stones in the Paul Harris Fellow pin. For example, a Paul Harris Fellow with one sapphire has contributed another $1,000 to the Foundation beyond the original amount.

Today, more than 1 million people have received the Paul Harris Fellow Award. This includes Rotarians, community leaders, and public figures who have supported Rotary’s global causes. Some notable recipients include world leaders like Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, and Jimmy Carter, whose humanitarian work aligns with Rotary’s mission.

The contributions made through Paul Harris Fellow donations support Rotary’s mission and projects worldwide. These donations help fund essential programs in Rotary’s seven focus areas, such as disease prevention (including the End Polio Now campaign), promoting peace, providing clean water, and supporting education.

The funds raised through the Paul Harris Fellow program also help provide scholarships, vocational training, and grants that empower communities to achieve sustainable growth. Each contribution honors Paul Harris’s legacy and ensures that Rotary can continue its humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Becoming a Paul Harris Fellow can happen in a few different ways. Rotarians and non-Rotarians may receive the award by donating $1,000 or more to The Rotary Foundation. Alternatively, someone can become a Paul Harris Fellow if another individual or club donates in their name, a common way to honor individuals for their service.

Many Rotary clubs encourage members to become Paul Harris Fellows by offering matching grants or recognizing those who consistently contribute to the Foundation’s efforts. The award’s flexibility allows more people to get involved in supporting Rotary’s causes, whether through financial contributions or significant acts of service.

The Paul Harris Fellow Award symbolizes Rotary International’s commitment to service, peace, and philanthropy. Since its introduction in 1957, the award has recognized over a million individuals for their humanitarian contributions. By honoring the legacy of Rotary’s founder, Paul Harris, this recognition inspires generosity and service, ensuring that Rotary’s mission to create a better world remains strong. Whether through donations or dedicated service, becoming a Paul Harris Fellow is a meaningful way to contribute to the global good.

For more information about the Paul Harris Fellow Award or how you can contribute to Rotary’s work, join us for a meeting or explore The Rotary Foundation.