By: Ann Lee Hussey, District 7780 PolioPlus Chair, Portland Sunrise RC
As of October 20, 2021, only two cases of wild poliovirus have been reported - one in Afghanistan, one in Pakistan. It is a time for optimism but we cannot become complacent. 
The wild polio virus continues to struggle for survival. I cannot stress enough how important it is for Rotarians to continue their support for PolioPlus. We must build on the progress made to date and protect children everywhere from paralysis by the poliovirus.
450 million children need to be immunized each year in 60 vulnerable countries, where, if the virus returned, it would spread like wildfire and settle again. All our gains would be wasted. In 1985 we promised the children of the world that we would eradicate this devastating disease of Polio from the face of the earth. Rotarians are people of integrity and we keep our promises.
As a Rotarian and supporter of Polio Eradication, Rotary’s Number One Priority, you can be a part of making history as a member of the PolioPlus Society of District 7780. As a member of the Society, you pledge to donate a minimum of $100 USD each year until the world is certified polio free by the World Health Organization.
All donations will receive a 2-to-1 match by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation making this an even better opportunity, as well as receiving Paul Harris recognition points for your donation.
Rotarians and their friends who join the Society will be honored with a special pin. 
Joining the Polio Plus Society is easy.
Go to https://rotary7780.org/sitepage/polio-plus-1/polio-plus-society and fill out the application found on the left side of the page. As noted on the form, please send a copy to me as well as your club Foundation chair.
The easiest way to donate is to log in at
https://www.endpolio.org/donate then click DONATE:
Sign up for a recurring contribution of $25 or more to be charged to your credit card quarterly or $10 monthly.
Until the world is polio-free, every child, anywhere, is at risk.
On behalf of the world’s children, Thank You.