What if I told you this park embodies friendship? This is the Parco dell’Amicizia Paul Harris. It is more than just a green space in Milan. This park commemorates Paul Harris. He founded Rotary International in 1905.
Paul Harris was a Chicago attorney. He had a vision for professionals to connect. He wanted them to exchange ideas in a spirit of friendship. On February 23 1905 Harris met with Gustavus Loehr. Silvester Schiele and Hiram Shorey were also there. They gathered in Loehr’s office. It was room 711 of the Unity Building in Chicago. This meeting is considered the first Rotary Club gathering.
Harris envisioned a club where members rotated meeting locations. This rotation would help them learn about each other’s professions. This concept led to the name Rotary. The Rotary Club of Chicago was born. It soon expanded beyond Chicago.
Paul Harris saw a need for Rotary to have a greater purpose. New clubs started across the United States. They then spread to Europe. Harris died on January 27 1947. He was 78 years old. Donations poured in from around the world after his death. These donations honored his passion and support for Rotary.
The Amici di Paul Harris program recognizes significant contributions. It acknowledges those who donate in his name. Donations of $1000 or more to the Rotary Foundation qualify. This recognition began in 1957. It supports the Annual Fund PolioPlus Fund or approved grants.
The Paul Harris Society recognizes Rotary members and friends. They donate $1000 or more annually. The donations support various Rotary initiatives. These include the Annual Fund SHARE and PolioPlus Fund. These donations also support disaster response.
The Paul Harris Society honors donors. It thanks them for their generosity. Rotary districts often present new members with certificates. They also receive pins at district or club events.
Donations to the Paul Harris Society support many activities. These activities include vocational training for teachers. They establish childhood education centers in South Africa. They also provide water filters and hygiene education in India. This prevents diseases. They fund scholarships for medical professionals in Italy. These professionals research cures to reduce premature birth mortality. Seminars on peace building are also supported. These seminars reach teachers and students in Uganda. The society provides insecticide treated bed nets. It also supports medical services for malaria prevention in Mali.
Today more than 1.2 million Rotarians exist worldwide. They belong to over 32554 clubs in 168 countries. Rotary is a leading service organization. It promotes friendship service and international understanding. The Parco dell’Amicizia Paul Harris stands as a reminder of these ideals. It embodies Harris’ vision of friendship and service. Remember Paul Harris’ legacy as you enjoy this park. His vision continues to inspire people worldwide.