Since its founding on June 23, 1915, with just 21 charter members, the Rotary Club of Lexington has been a driving force for positive change in our city. Only four years after its inception, the Club spearheaded a city bond issue for $1.25 million, leading to vital street extensions and urban improvements that shaped the future of Lexington.

Over the decades, our Club’s influence has continued to grow. We proudly initiated efforts that led to the creation of Cardinal Hill Hospital and the Kentucky Society for Crippled Children, now known as the Kentucky Easter Seal Society. Our leadership also paved the way for the Community Chest Campaign, which evolved into the United Way of the Bluegrass—an organization that still thrives today, supporting those in need.

In a true act of service, the Rotary Club of Lexington purchased and donated Camp Offutt to the Blue Grass Council of the Boy Scouts of America, leaving a lasting legacy for youth in our community. We have remained steadfast in our commitment to education, offering scholarships to deserving students for over 70 years and playing an instrumental role in establishing and supporting vocational schools since the 1930s.

 In 2004, our members championed the creation of the Toyota Bluegrass Miracle League, bringing to life a baseball league and inclusive park facilities at Shillito Park for children with special needs—a testament to our enduring belief in building a more inclusive community.

As we proudly celebrated 100 years of “Service Above Self” in 2015, the Rotary Club of Lexington remains as committed as ever to making a meaningful difference. Today, our 225 members continue to work tirelessly to improve the lives of those in the Lexington community.