In 1985, Rotary launched PolioPlus, one of the most ambitious humanitarian programs ever undertaken by a private-sector organization. PolioPlus was the catalyst for the World Health Assembly's resolution in 1988 to eradicate polio. Today, thanks to Rotary's US$500 million commitment and its leadership in mobilizing volunteers, the world is on the threshold of eradicating the poliovirus.

  Great progress has been made. Fewer than 10 countries still have polio. The number of cases worldwide has decreased 99 percent since 1985. The greatest obstacle to victory is adequate funding. A $275 million shortfall must be overcome in the period 2002-05.

  For this reason, the Rotary International Board of Directors and the Trustees of the Rotary Foundation have unanimously decided to launch a one-year campaign to help fill the funding gap. The campaign seeks $80 million in cash and pledges during the period 1 July 2002 through 30 June 2003. (Pledges may be paid over a three-year period.)

  The money is needed for vaccine and its delivery through National Immunization Days, and surveillance systems needed to identify remaining pockets of the disease.

  Up to $25 million of contributions to the campaign will be matched by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The World Bank will provide further support. As of mid-August, contributions exceed $5 million.

  Each Rotary club is requested to set its own campaign goal.

  “The local Rotary club in Bracebridge has set a goal of $35,000.00 for this campaign,” says Mark Augustine of the local club, explaining that they are using a similar formula to the one the club used in the 1985 campaign, with an equal goal per person in the club.  Part of the community for over 50 years, the Bracebridge Rotary club raised $58,000.00 in the first PolioPlus campaign, the highest of any club in their district.

  “We’re doing several things to raise funds locally – soliciting both individuals and corporate donations, we took part in the local Unicef campaign this Halloween, which was entirely dedicated to Polio, and we are also selling Teddy Bears,” Mark states, adding, “We just sold out of the ‘Hope for Polio’ bears so have introduced 2 new bears this week, and will have the ‘Hope for Polio’ Bear available again in January. They cost $25.00 each, with $10.00 going directly to the campaign.”

  For more information contact Mark Augustine at (705) 645-7658.