For more than two decades, World Vision and Rotary International have partnered to deliver transformative water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions in some of the world’s most underserved communities. Anchored in shared values and a commitment to sustainable development, this strategic alliance has mobilized over $50 million in co-investments, reaching more than 5 million people across nearly every Rotary area of focus.
In September 2025, the depth and durability of this partnership were on full display during a joint vision trip to Honduras. Eleven Rotarians from across the United States traveled to observe the impact of the Safe Water Honduras project — a $1 million initiative co-funded by Rotary and World Vision. The project has provided clean water to more than 7,000 people across 13 communities, 10 schools, and five healthcare units.
From the outset in Santa Rosa de Copán, the delegation engaged directly with community members whose lives have been transformed by access to clean water. In Agua Zarca and El Naranjo, families shared firsthand accounts of the health and economic burdens they faced before the intervention. In Las Cañas and Dolores, children led hygiene education sessions that reflected both technical understanding and community ownership. In San Antonio, Rotarians observed progress in school sanitation — an area of shared priority — and discussed sustainability strategies with local leaders.
This visit underscored the strategic value of the Rotary–World Vision partnership — not only as co-investors but as co-creators of locally led, technically sound solutions. It also reinforced the importance of scaling impact through trusted collaboration, deep field expertise, and a shared commitment to measurable, lasting change.
World Vision’s community-based model, technical depth, and emphasis on sustainability were evident throughout the trip. Yet what resonated most was the spirit of partnership — the recognition that this work is not the domain of any single organization, but a collective endeavor rooted in mutual respect and aligned purpose.
Beyond Honduras, the partnership continues to deliver high-impact results:
- In Mbala, Zambia, a $1.07 million WASH initiative transitioned to local ownership in 2025. The project equipped 15,000 residents with 26 hand pumps, 10 piped-water systems in schools, and upgraded sanitation facilities in four health centers, including maternity units.
- In Yaya Gulele, Ethiopia, a $680,000 joint effort expanded clean water access to twelve schools and surrounding communities, benefiting over 52,216 people. The project also included solar-powered water systems and inclusive sanitation infrastructure such as separate menstrual hygiene management facilities for girls and disability-inclusive facilities.
These examples reflect a broader global commitment. Since 2013, Rotary has supported more than 2,000 WASH projects, totaling over $130 million. The partnership with World Vision continues to evolve, integrating cross-sectoral priorities such as health, education, and climate resilience—while maintaining a sharp focus on sustainability and community empowerment.
As we look ahead, we do so with deep appreciation for the Rotary clubs and districts whose vision, generosity, and leadership have made this journey possible. Their commitment has helped communities thrive, children flourish, and futures brighten.
Together, World Vision and Rotary are building legacies of impact, credibility, and hope.
