History
Why We Exist
Today, 1 to 2 billion people worldwide live with a disability — and yet many face discrimination, poverty, and lack of access to education, jobs, healthcare, and even basic movement. In both rich and poor countries, people with disabilities are often left behind.
Our club exists to change that. We are not here to give charity — we are here to fight for justice, dignity, and equal opportunities.
Disability is part of human life. It can happen to anyone, at any time. But when people with disabilities are empowered, we all benefit. In fact, many things we use every day — like audiobooks, text messaging, and sidewalk ramps — were created by or for people with disabilities. A world that includes everyone is a better world for all.
What We Do
Since our founding, RCWDA has worked to:
Raise awareness about disability rights and accessibility.
Train and support Rotary clubs to become more inclusive.
Host events like global webinars and the Inclusive Education Summit.
Partner with Rotary groups and disability experts around the world.
Lead projects that come directly from the lived experiences of our members.
Our work is inclusive, practical, and global. Whether it’s helping a Rotary club learn how to welcome a new member with a disability or bringing together 500 people to learn how to make schools more accessible — we focus on real needs and real solutions.
Our Story
Our journey began with a simple idea: Rotary can do more to include people with disabilities. That idea turned into action when a small group of us from different countries came together online in 2021. We started as 20 people with a shared vision. Today, we are more than 75 members across six continents — and we’re still growing.
Our members lead with passion, courage, and lived experience. We’ve organized international events, published guides, and helped clubs around the world become more inclusive.
But this is just the beginning. Our story is still being written — and you can be part of it. Whether you live with a disability or care about someone who does, whether you are new to Rotary or have been part of it for years — we welcome you.
Our Vision
We envision a world where people with disabilities live without stigma or barriers — where everyone has the right to work, learn, receive healthcare, and move freely.
We believe disability is a natural part of human diversity, not something to be hidden or pitied. Inclusion is not charity — it’s about human rights, dignity, and fairness. When people with disabilities thrive, communities grow stronger.
This vision is fully in line with Rotary International’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We want every person to feel valued and have the chance to lead, contribute, and succeed.
Our Mission
Our mission is simple and strong:
To educate, empower, and engage people around the world to build a more inclusive and accessible future. Here’s how we do it:
1. Educate
We share knowledge about disability, accessibility, and inclusion. We offer webinars, summits, and training sessions to Rotary clubs and the public. We help others understand what real inclusion means — and how to make it happen.
2. Empower
We support people with disabilities to become leaders, advocates, and changemakers. We offer mentorship, share practical tools, and create spaces where people can grow and thrive.
3. Engage
We build partnerships — with other Rotary clubs, organizations, experts, and governments. Real change needs many voices. We invite everyone to join us and work alongside us in this mission.