About Us | Rotary Club of Houston, TX

Rotary Club of Houston

Serving Our Community Since 1912

Established in 1912, we are proud to be the original Rotary Club of Houston, with a legacy of service that spans over a century. Our diverse membership of leaders and professionals is united by a shared commitment to improving the quality of human life through volunteer community service. We strive to address our community's most pressing challenges through impactful projects, meaningful partnerships, and a spirit of friendship.

Learn about our history ›

Our Projects

At the heart of our club is a commitment to Service Above Self. We believe in the power of collaboration and collective action to address our community's most pressing challenges. Whether supporting local initiatives or participating in global projects, our members unite to effect meaningful change.

Rotary House

One of our flagship projects is the Rotary House, a remarkable collaboration with MD Anderson Cancer Center, making it the largest single project of any Rotary club in the world. Through this initiative, we provide housing and support services to patients and their families undergoing treatment.

Burnett Bayland

Named after Burnett Bayland, a former Houston Mayor and esteemed club member, this project has become a cornerstone of Rotary's efforts to support and mentor at-risk children under the county jurisdiction. Started in 1919, it is the longest continuous service project of any Rotary worldwide.

International Projects

Rotary has had long-term success in this region of the Upper Amazon with rainwater harvesting and storage solutions to public health issues related to lack of access to clean water. Rotary’s success can be traced to a detailed, long-term oversight and support program that includes multiple visits annually from in-country partners and implementation teams to ensure maintenance and sustainability for a minimum of five years post-implementation of latrines for villagers. These structures require no electrical utilities, are simply designed, easily maintained by households, and will be constructed of locally available materials.

The Village Water Committee manages a fee structure to account for long-term maintenance needs. Rotary has been extremely successful with behavioral change around handwashing and the importance of rainwater harvesting system maintenance, as evidenced by the continued operation of RWH's multiple projects over the last 10 years.

Hearts for Children

We also support initiatives like the Adoption Fair with Harris County Protective Services, providing hope and opportunities for children needing loving homes. Education is another cornerstone of our efforts, with literacy programs such as giving dictionaries to third graders and partnering with the First Book program to promote reading and learning.

Youth Professional Development

Our commitment to youth extends to the Interact Clubs we sponsor at three local high schools, empowering young people to become agents of positive change in their communities.

We also nurture future leaders through programs like Camp Enterprise, offering high school juniors practical insights into the business world. During the immersive three-day camp, students participate in a variety of workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions led by experienced business leaders and mentors. They explore topics such as marketing, finance, management, and teamwork, gaining valuable insights into the inner workings of businesses and organizations.

Recognizing the importance of second chances, we also extend outreach to those incarcerated through our Fresh Start program, offering support and resources for successful reintegration into society.

Lombardi Award

In addition to our ongoing projects and initiatives, the Rotary Club of Houston proudly hosts the Lombardi Award, an esteemed recognition honoring college football linemen or linebackers in the United States who embody the values of integrity, perseverance, and teamwork. Named after the legendary football coach Vince Lombardi, this award celebrates excellence both on and off the field.

Since its founding in 1970, the Lombardi Award has been instrumental in the fight against cancer. Over a million dollars have been raised through its efforts to support vital cancer research.

Distinguished Citizen Award

Through the Distinguished Citizen Award, the Rotary Club of Houston seeks to shine a spotlight on individuals who embody the spirit of service, leadership, and compassion, and who have made a lasting impact on the Houston community. By recognizing and celebrating these remarkable individuals, the Rotary Club of Houston hopes to inspire others to embrace the principles of community service and civic responsibility, ultimately fostering a culture of giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.

Membership

The Rotary Club of Houston brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds and generations who share a common goal: to make a lasting impact on our world, our communities, and ourselves. Our members, alongside Rotaract partners, strengthen bonds with friends and neighbors as we unite in service-driven action. From the heart of our city to the quiet corners of our rural communities, the Rotary Club of Houston is actively transforming lives and shaping the future.

Attend a meeting to learn more ›

Service Event - BEARing Gifts for CPS Kids
BE A Resource Warehouse

Dec. 12, 2024
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Holiday Wreaths for Veterans
Houston National Cemetary

Dec. 14, 2024
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
RCoH Board Meeting - December 16, 2024
Karen Sotallaro's Office

Dec. 16, 2024
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
RCoH Board Meeting
Karen Sotallaro's Office

Dec. 16, 2024
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Rotary House Reception
Rotary House International

Dec. 18, 2024
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.