Club membership represents a cross-section of local business and professional leaders. First admitted in 1987, women are the fastest-growing segment of Rotary's membership. There are currently nearly 1,900 women club presidents. Women are also rapidly assuming regional leadership roles. Rotarians initiate community projects that address many of today's most critical issues, such as violence, drug abuse, youth, AIDS, hunger, the environment, and illiteracy.
Rotary clubs are autonomous and determine service projects based on local needs.
Rotarians work with and for youth to address challenges facing young people today. Rotary Youth Exchange gives high school students the opportunity to broaden their world view and build international friendships. In large cities often plagued by urban violence, Rotary has the community-based network to help. Rotary-sponsored projects and conferences address the root causes of violence such as drug abuse, poverty, lack of role models, and gangs. Rotarians build goodwill and peace, provide humanitarian service, and encourage high ethical standards in all vocations.