Paul Harris Fellows
Posted by Rual Perkins
Undoubtedly the most important step to promote voluntary giving to The Rotary Foundation occurred in 1957, when the idea of Paul Harris Fellow Recognition was first proposed. Although the concept of making $1,000 gifts to the Foundation was slow in developing, by the early 1970's it began to gain popularity. The distinctive Paul Harris Fellow medallion, lapel pin, and attractive certificate have become highly respected symbols of a substantial financial commitment to The Rotary Foundation by Rotarians and friends around the world. In 2006, the number of Paul Harris Fellows reached the one million mark.
A companion to Paul Harris Fellow Recognition, the Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member, which is the recognition presented to an individual who has made a contribution of $100, with the stated intention of making additional contributions until $1,000 is reached. At that time, the Sustaining Member becomes a Paul Harris Fellow.
A special recognition pin is given to Paul Harris Fellows who make additional gifts of $1,000 to the Foundation. The distinctive gold pin includes a blue stone to represent each $1000 contribution—from $2000-$6000. Red stone pins signify gifts of $7000-$9000.