Rotaract is a Rotary-sponsored service club for young professionals aged between 18 and 30 committed to personal, professional and community development. Through the Rotaract program, young adults get an opportunity not only to discover their knowledge and skills but also to address the social & physical needs of their communities, foster leadership and responsibility, encourage high ethical standards while promoting international understanding and peace through a framework of friendship and service. Rotaract, was officially initiated during January 1968 under RI President Luther Hodges. On 13 March 1968, the Rotaract Club of the University of North Carolina, sponsored by the Rotary Club of North Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. This was the first Rotaract club to receive its official charter. Even though it was recognized as the first Rotaract club, Rotarians have been sponsoring similar organizations for young professionals since the early 1920s. As one of the most prestigious and fastest-growing programs of Rotary service, with more than 8,000 Rotaract clubs in more than 163 countries and geographic areas, Rotaract has become a worldwide recognized organization.
