Posted by Patti Johnson
This day marks a significant moment in history—the founding meeting of Rotary International, which set the stage for a global effort toward peace and understanding across the world. It’s a day that not only celebrates the origins of an organization dedicated to global humanitarian service but also reminds us of the ongoing need for peace and mutual understanding among all nations and communities.
For Rotarians, as members of a humanitarian organization, peace is a cornerstone of our mission. We believe when people work to create peace in their communities, that change can have a global effect.
By carrying out service projects and supporting peace fellowships and scholarships, our members take action to address the underlying causes of conflict, including poverty, discrimination, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.
Our commitment to peacebuilding today answers new challenges: how we can make the greatest possible impact and how we can achieve our vision of lasting change. We are approaching the concept of peace with greater cohesion and inclusivity, broadening the scope of what we mean by peacebuilding, and finding more ways for people to get involved.
Rotary creates environments where peace can happen. 
Individuals can contribute to peace by engaging in community service, educating themselves and others about peace and conflict resolution, participating in or organizing events that promote cultural understanding, and supporting peacebuilding organizations either through donations or volunteer work.