At the Rotary International Convention in Lisbon, Portugal on June 25, 20,000+ Rotarians from 160 countries gathered to cheer the latest polio announcement.   Rotary and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation announced an extension of their existing fundraising partnership that could generate up to US$525 million for polio eradication.  The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will match two dollars for every new dollar Rotary spends on polio eradication, up to US$35 million per year, through 2018.

 
With the development of the End Game Strategy, developed by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative partners a few months ago, this new funding plan will help create the funds needed to complete our goal.  All Rotary clubs and Rotarians are asked to hold fundraisers dedicated to polio eradication and to remain strong advocates for our polio program by involving the general public, along with local and corporate businesses.

We made a promise to the children of the world, and Rotary keeps their promises!  We ask for your continued support. -- Ann Lee Hussey, District PolioPlus Chair