--- title: About - Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown --- [Skip to content](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/about#main-content) Members Section [2024-25 Annual Report](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/Documents/en-ca/9129594d-a171-4ecf-a396-7d2196c9cdb9/1/) [The Club Hub](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942) [My Rotary](https://my.rotary.org/en) [RCCD YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIVJdjN8Ah330oYVGz5RpWg) [Our Bulletins](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-bulletins?hsLang=en) [Rotary District 5360](https://rotary5360.ca/) [![RCDC-Logo](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/RCDC-Logo.svg "RCDC-Logo")](http:/?hsLang=en) × [Home](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/?hsLang=en) About #### [![Rectangle 111](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20111.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20111.jpg) About Us Discover the history of the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown and our ongoing dedication to service, community impact, and global connections.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/about) #### [![Rectangle 112](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20112.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20112.jpg) Community Impact Learn how the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown drives change locally and globally through initiatives in literacy, wellness, education, and more.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/community-impact?hsLang=en) Get Involved #### [![Rectangle 111-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20111-1.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20111-1.jpg) Get Involved Discover how to get involved with the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown through club meetings, events, and supporting impactful programs.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/get-involved?hsLang=en) #### [![Rectangle 112-2](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20112-2.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20112-2.jpg) Become a Member Learn about membership responsibilities, benefits, and how to join the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown as an individual, joint, or corporate member.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/become-member?hsLang=en) #### [![Rectangle 114-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20114-1.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20114-1.jpg) Club Meetings & Events Explore upcoming Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown meetings and events, where members connect, collaborate, and support meaningful initiatives.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/events?hsLang=en) #### [![Rectangle 116-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20116-1.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20116-1.jpg) Volunteer Opportunities Discover volunteer opportunities with the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown and support impactful events aligned with our five areas of focus.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/volunteer-opportunities?hsLang=en) What We Fund #### [![20161116_BR_086](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/20161116_BR_086.jpg?width=2000&name=20161116_BR_086.jpg) Signature Legacy Projects  The Legacy Signature Projects support community initiatives that create lasting change in Calgary and surrounding communities through innovative and sustainable investments. ](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/sitepage/legacy-projects/signature-legacy-projects) #### [![md_cDynfP7Iks71J1x4](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/md_cDynfP7Iks71J1x4.jpg?width=550&height=367&name=md_cDynfP7Iks71J1x4.jpg) Major Donations Major Donations Committee reviews community projects and recommends grants over $10,000 that align with our Club’s charitable goals. Most awards range from $10,000 to $25,000 and support both capital projects and programs.  ](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/SitePage/major-local-donations) #### [![md_6rk0GMg4omZ91gNN](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/md_6rk0GMg4omZ91gNN.jpg?width=549&height=366&name=md_6rk0GMg4omZ91gNN.jpg) Rotary Helps YYC Support Rotary Helps YYC, a “one window” to apply for support from the following eight Calgary Rotary Clubs: Centennial, Chinook, Downtown, East, Fish Creek, Heritage, North and West. Clubs will consider applications serving Calgary and area.](https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-oNgBf5-WUuqr1QSM-StoKmuIOu8911FhmmboV_t41hUMzdGU1VTVVRIMFkyREZMWk5PNlg2NzZRVC4u&route=shorturl) #### [![20230319_AU_027](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/20230319_AU_027.jpg?width=2000&name=20230319_AU_027.jpg) Small Donations The Small Donations Committee receives and reviews funding requests, up to $10,000, from registered charitable organizations in Calgary and its surrounding areas.](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/sitepage/small-donations) #### [![20220407_US_095 (1)](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/20220407_US_095%20(1).jpg?width=2000&name=20220407_US_095%20(1).jpg) International Service Our International  Service programs includes activities with a global perspective in mind. This is one of the 5 Rotary AVENUES of Service.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/world-community-services?hsLang=en) What We Do #### [![20241121_PE_050 (2)](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/20241121_PE_050%20(2).jpg?width=2000&name=20241121_PE_050%20(2).jpg) Rotary Stay-In-School Program Stay in School provides mentorship, support, and opportunities to help students overcome challenges and stay on track. The program guides youth toward graduation and reaching their full potential. ](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/stay-in-school-mentorship-and-scholarships-carl-smith-program?hs_preview=MsSPUWUu-211203182421&hsLang=en) #### [![DSC08508-2-105](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/DSC08508-2-105.jpg?width=2000&name=DSC08508-2-105.jpg) Rotary Stay-In-School Golf Classic is a fundraising event that brings the community together to support youth through education and mentorship. Proceeds from the tournament help students stay in school, graduate, and build brighter futures. ](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/2026-rotary-stay-in-school-golf-classic-support-education-and-mentorship-rotary-club-of-calgary-downtown?hs_preview=frtSYUPI-220487846421&hsLang=en) #### [![c50d4d02-a4fb-494b-acd8-5deb69de8810](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/c50d4d02-a4fb-494b-acd8-5deb69de8810.jpg?width=640&height=481&name=c50d4d02-a4fb-494b-acd8-5deb69de8810.jpg) Adopt A Village  The Adopt a Village program partners with local Rotary clubs in Uganda to support rural communities facing systemic challenges. ](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/adopt-a-village?hs_preview=xkfwuYgv-215079509380&hsLang=en) [Donate](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/donations) About Rotary Where We Meet Our History of Rotary Club of Calgary Community Impact Our Partnerships Need Rotary Support? Make an Impact with a Donation About **Rotary** The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown is part of a global network of 1.4M members dedicated to creating lasting change locally and globally through impactful initiatives. As a global network that strives to build a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change, Rotary values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people of all backgrounds, regardless of their age, ethnicity, race, color, abilities, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Joining Rotary means becoming part of a community of leaders and change-makers committed to building a brighter future for all. [Become a Member](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/become-member?hsLang=en) [Club Meetings & Events](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/events?hsLang=en) ![tab-image](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/tab-image.png?width=388&height=621&name=tab-image.png) ![three people - rotary](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/three%20people%20-%20rotary.svg) 150+ Members ![Group 1522](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Group%201522.svg) 20+ Annual Service Projects (Local + International) ![Group 1524](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Group%201524.svg) $2M Annual Giving Where We **Meet** ![tab-image](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/tab-image.png?width=388&height=621&name=tab-image.png) Our History of **Rotary Club of Calgary** Become a Member Become a Member ![tab-image](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/tab-image.png?width=388&height=621&name=tab-image.png) ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members Community **Impact** Become a Member Become a Member ![tab-image](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/tab-image.png?width=388&height=621&name=tab-image.png) ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members Our **Partnership** Become a Member Become a Member ![tab-image](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/tab-image.png?width=388&height=621&name=tab-image.png) ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members Need Rotary **Support?** Become a Member Become a Member ![tab-image](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/tab-image.png?width=388&height=621&name=tab-image.png) ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members Make an Impact with a **Donation** Become a Member Become a Member ![tab-image](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/tab-image.png?width=388&height=621&name=tab-image.png) ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members ![icon-1-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1-1.svg) 150+ Members When and Where to Join Us For over 110 years, the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown has brought people together. We meet in person at 12:00 PM on alternate Tuesdays at the historic Palliser Hotel. Visitors and guests are always welcome to join us for meaningful dialogue, fresh insights, and opportunities to strengthen community connections. Visit our Events page for upcoming dates and program details. [Club Meetings & Events](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/events?hsLang=en) ![event](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/event.png?width=798&height=798&name=event.png) Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown Bulletins Stay connected and inspired! Our bulletins spotlight club news, events, and community impact. [**View Club Bulletins**](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-bulletins?hsLang=en) ![0a0d305c-d1f5-4c5b-8b01-a700f71e4c46](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/0a0d305c-d1f5-4c5b-8b01-a700f71e4c46.jpg?width=400&height=400&name=0a0d305c-d1f5-4c5b-8b01-a700f71e4c46.jpg) ![quote](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/quote.svg) **Welcome to the Rotary Club of Calgary, Downtown!** Our Club is where friendships create partnerships, ideas become action, and we become a community that is a force for good. From high-profile speakers to hands-on local and global initiatives, the Downtown Rotary Club is where lifelong friendships and impactful service come together. Reach out today to learn the many ways you can get involved, give back and make meaningful change. Discover your place with us, and let's achieve great things together! ***“Create Lasting Impact”***   Doug Webb, President Take Action With Us Join a global network of over 1.4 million dedicated to creating lasting change. Rotary members are people of action, addressing challenges through shared values of integrity, service, and leadership. ![icon-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/icon-1.svg) **Global Impact:** Be part of 45,000+ clubs committed to peace, health, and education worldwide. ![Outline](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Outline.svg) **Local Focus:** Drive change in your community through initiatives in literacy, mental wellness, and more. ![Long-Term Relationships](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Long-Term%20Relationships.svg) **Leadership & Fellowship:** Connect with like-minded leaders who share your passion for impact. Together, we tackle the world’s toughest issues, from clean water to education, promoting goodwill and a brighter future for all. [Learn More](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/what-we-fund?hsLang=en) Your browser does not support the video tag. Our History: Rotary Club of Calgary 1914 - Founding of Rotary Club of Calgary Founded in 1914, the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown was one of Canada’s first Rotary clubs and has played a pivotal role in shaping Calgary’s community spirit. Early members led efforts like creating the Boys Club, supporting war efforts, and founding Calgary’s Community Chest, now known as the United Way. Rotary's core value of “Service Above Self” fueled a wide range of initiatives both locally and internationally. The club continues to meet at the historic Palliser Hotel. Our Rotarians are committed to fostering local and global change through collaboration and dedication to community welfare. 1927 - James Wheeler Davidson Expands Rotary Rotarian **James Wheeler Davidson (Big Jim)**, a member of the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown, played a pivotal role in Rotary’s global expansion during the early 20th century. Beginning in 1927, Davidson embarked on an ambitious journey across Asia, establishing new Rotary clubs in countries such as India, China, Japan, and the Philippines. His dedication to fostering international understanding and service helped lay the foundation for Rotary’s global reach today. Davidson’s efforts exemplify the spirit of Rotary: Service Above Self. 1928-1931 - James Wheeler Davidson forms 32 clubs in 15 countries Rotarian James Wheeler Davidson travels the world to form a total of 32 Rotary clubs in 15 different countries. The club-founding portion of the journey began in Athens, Greece, and continued through Cairo and Jerusalem. In India, the Davidson's tour added three more clubs: Bombay (Mumbai), Delhi, and Madras. He was again successful at founding a club in Sri Lanka. By journey's end, Jim had entertained 2,200 men in their offices, and Lillian's *Rotarian* articles were hugely popular. 1930-31 - Rotary Club of Calgary completes Dining Lodge at Camp Hector The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) has a longstanding history of supporting Camp Chief Hector YMCA. In 1930/31, RCCD completed a dining lodge at the camp, which has ceremonially transferred to the YMCA in June of that year. This early contribution underscores RCCD's enduring commitment to youth development and community support. 1935 - Formation of the Community Chest The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) played a pivotal role in the formation of the **Community Chest** in 1935, a groundbreaking initiative that laid the foundation for what is now the United Way of Calgary and Area. This collaborative effort brought together community leaders, organizations, and resources to centralize charitable fundraising and allocate funds more effectively to those in need. 1949 - Rotary Club of Calgary forms the downtown Boy's Club In 1949, after years of operating the Rotary Boys Club, the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown took a significant step by establishing the **downtown Boys' Club**, designed to provide a safe, supportive environment for youth. The club offered mentorship, recreational activities, and skill-building programs aimed at empowering boys from underserved communities to reach their potential. This initiative laid the foundation for what is now **Trellis**, a modern organization dedicated to supporting children, youth, and families across Calgary. 1970 - Hayden Smith spearheads the Million Dollar Dinner Hayden Smith of the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown spearheads the Million Dollar Dinner leading the Calgary foundation to the next level. Under the leadership of Chuck Simpson, the club becomes a founder in the Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre. 1990/91 - Nan Jensen joins Rotary Club of Calgary as Honorary Member Rotary Club of Calgary invites women to join the club. Nan Walker Jensen (niece of Rotary International founder Paul Harris) joined as an honorary member in 1991. 1993 - Founding of Carl Smith Stay-in-School Program In 1993, the Rotary Club of Calgary founded the **Carl Smith Stay-in-School (SIS) Program**, named in honor of Carl Smith, a dedicated Rotarian with a passion for empowering youth through education. The program was established to provide mentorship, financial support, and guidance to students from grades 5 or 6 through high school graduation. By addressing barriers such as financial challenges and offering long-term mentorship, the SIS program helps students stay engaged in their education, build confidence, and achieve their academic and personal goals. This enduring initiative reflects RCCD’s commitment to creating opportunities for Calgary’s youth and fostering a brighter future for generations to come. 2007 - Partnership with Flames Foundation resulting in Rotary Flames Park and a $10 million contribution to Reach! In 2007, the Rotary Clubs of Calgary, in partnership with the Flames Foundation for Life, created the Rotary Flames Park at Ronald McDonald House Southern Alberta. This outdoor space features a basketball court, walking paths, green space, and a gazebo, providing families with a private and peaceful retreat during challenging times. The park reinforces the commitment to offering a compassionate and supportive home away from home. That same year, the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown and Rotary Club of Calgary South partnered with the Flames Foundation for Life to contribute a transformative $10 million gift to "Reach!"—a health-focused initiative supporting groundbreaking medical advancements. This gift funded projects including a cardiovascular hypertension centre, spinal cord research, the world’s first image-guided surgical robot (NeuroArm), tissue engineering, and a pediatric hospice. This partnership demonstrates Rotary's enduring commitment to health, innovation, and community well-being. 2014 - Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown Appoints First Woman President Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown appoints its first woman president, Eva Friesen, CEO of the Calgary Foundation. 2017 - Opening of the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway In 2017, the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) proudly supported the opening of the **Rotary/Mattamy Greenway**, a 138-kilometer pathway encircling Calgary. This transformative project, in partnership with Mattamy Homes, connects communities across the city, promoting active living, outdoor recreation, and environmental sustainability. RCCD’s involvement reflects its commitment to enhancing public spaces, fostering community connection, and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy. 2022 - Rotary Club of Calgary Becomes the Steward of the Calgary Reads Big Book Sale Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown becomes the steward of the Calgary Reads Big Book Sale which raises approximately half a million dollars in support of Early Childhood Literacy programs and projects in and around Calgary. ![Rotary 1914_2](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%201914_2.png?width=1634&height=1000&name=Rotary%201914_2.png) 1. 1st president of RCCD: James S. Ryan 2. The original charter of RCCD ![Rotary 1927_Big Jim](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%201927_Big%20Jim.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%201927_Big%20Jim.png) James Wheeler Davidson (Big Jim) ![elephant](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/elephant.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=elephant.png) 1. Marjory Davidson rides an elephant in Malaysia 2. Jim Davidson interviews a Rotary prospect in Sri Lanka ![Rotary 1931_Boy_s club poster](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%201931_Boy_s%20club%20poster.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%201931_Boy_s%20club%20poster.png) Poster announcing the opening of Camp Hector in 1931 ![Rotary 1935_Community Chest](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%201935_Community%20Chest.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%201935_Community%20Chest.png) Raffle ticket of a house RCCD purchased and sold as an example of fundraising inititatives for Community Chest ![Rotary 1949_Boys Town 1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%201949_Boys%20Town%201.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%201949_Boys%20Town%201.png) 1. Wood-working shop at the Calgary Boy's Town. 2. The downtown Boy's town members. ![Rotary 1970_Hayden Smith](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%201970_Hayden%20Smith.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%201970_Hayden%20Smith.png) Hayden Smith joins MHR Legacy Circle ![Frame 123-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Frame%20123-1.png?width=518&height=319&name=Frame%20123-1.png) Nan Walker Jensen ![Rotary 1993_ Carl Smith 1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%201993_%20Carl%20Smith%201.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%201993_%20Carl%20Smith%201.png) Carl Smith with Stay-in-School Scholarship recipients ![Rotary 2007 Flames House](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%202007%20Flames%20House.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%202007%20Flames%20House.png) Rotary Flames Park at Ronald McDonald House ![Rotary 2014_Friesen President](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%202014_Friesen%20President.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%202014_Friesen%20President.png) Eva Friesen: first woman RCCD president ![Rotary 2017_Matamy Park](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%202017_Matamy%20Park.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%202017_Matamy%20Park.png) Rotary/Mattamy Greenway pathway ![Rotary 2022_Big Book Sale](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rotary%202022_Big%20Book%20Sale.png?width=1838&height=1000&name=Rotary%202022_Big%20Book%20Sale.png) Calgary Reads Big Book Sale 1914 ![gear](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![active-gear](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 1927 ![gear](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![active-gear](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 1928/31 ![gear](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![active-gear](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 1930/31 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 1935 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 1949 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 1970 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 1990/1991 ![gear](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 1993 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 2007 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 2014 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 2017 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) 2022 ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/gear.svg) ![](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/active-gear.svg) ## James Wheeler Davidson ("Big Jim") James Wheeler Davidson’s legacy in Rotary is extraordinary. With a rich background as an adventurer, journalist, war correspondent, and US Consul General in Shanghai, Davidson was dedicated to promoting peace through friendship. After establishing successful business ventures, he settled in Calgary and joined Rotary, driven by a vision to expand Rotary’s global reach. In 1921, Davidson helped establish the first Rotary clubs in Australia and New Zealand. From 1928 to 1931, he embarked on an ambitious journey across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, chartering 23 Rotary clubs in 12 countries. His dedication came at a personal cost; his health suffered, and he passed away in 1933. His efforts laid the foundation for Rotary’s global presence and enduring impact on communities worldwide. [Our Leaders](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-leaders?hsLang=en) ![image](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/image.png?width=465&height=652&name=image.png) ![Frame 100](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Frame%20100.png?width=525&height=765&name=Frame%20100.png) ## Community Impact ### Empowering Change Through Strategic Investments Guided by principles of accountability, collaboration, and community engagement, the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) drives sustainable change locally and globally through strategic granting initiatives. Locally, RCCD's Discretionary Granting Strategy focuses on four core areas: Early Childhood Literacy, Education, Food Security, and Mental Wellness, providing targeted grants to organizations that create positive, long-term impact. Globally, RCCD actively participates in projects around the world, leveraging a variety of grants to deliver meaningful solutions in collaboration with international partners.  [Explore Rotary’s Impact](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/community-impact?hsLang=en) ### RCCD Areas of Focus **Early Childhood Literacy: **Every child in Calgary, from birth to age 8, deserves the opportunity to build strong literacy skills that will set them up for success. Through our programs, we provide children with access to their own books and connect them with role models who foster a love of reading. By promoting early literacy, we aim to ensure that all children can enjoy the joy of reading and achieve essential literacy milestones. **Education: **We're committed to creating a community where Calgarians have the support they need to succeed academically. From mentorship opportunities to community-driven programs, we help learners access the resources they need to complete their education. Explore Rotary’s Impact ### RCCD Areas of Focus **Food Security:** Rotary is dedicated to ensuring that all Calgarians have consistent, reliable access to food. Through partnerships and initiatives, we work to address food insecurity in our community. **Mental Wellness**: We strive to create a Calgary where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Through our support for mental health initiatives, we're fostering a community that prioritizes mental wellness and supports individuals on their journey to well-being. **International:** Rotary's commitment to service extends far beyond our local community. Around the globe, we support life-changing initiatives that provide access to clean water, healthcare, education and disaster relief. Explore Rotary’s Impact ## Our Partnerships The Rotary Club of Calgary collaborates with key partners to address critical needs and create lasting impact. Our Rotary Employment Partnership with Inclusion Alberta empowers individuals with developmental disabilities through meaningful employment, while the Lou MacEachern Fund, and our partnership with Youth Centres of Calgary, supports youth development and brighter futures. Working with the Calgary Flames Foundation, we advance health, education, and wellness initiatives that strengthen our community. Legacy projects like the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway - a 138 kilometer pathway connecting communities - promote active living and lasting connection. Through these impactful partnerships, Rotary enriches lives, strengthens Calgary, and builds a brighter future for all.   [Explore Our Partnerships](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-partnerships?hsLang=en) ![Frame 101](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Frame%20101.png?width=465&height=732&name=Frame%20101.png) # Need Rotary Support? To apply for Rotary Club of Calgary financial support, please complete an application form linked below and submit to [admin@rotaryclubofcalgary.ca](mailto:admin@rotaryclubofcalgary.ca) Under $10,000 submit to [Small Donations](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Application%20for%20Funding%20-%20Small%20Donations%20(2).pdf?hsLang=en) Over $10,000 submit to [Major Donations](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Major%20Grants%20Application.pdf?hsLang=en) Over $100,000 submit to [Signature Legacy](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Legacy%20Application%20Form.pdf?hsLang=en) For international funding requests, complete the World Community Service (WCS) Funding Application linked below. There is a collaborative group of Calgary Rotary Clubs who have created Rotary Helps YYC, a one window for the participating clubs. Please see link below to access this application. [International Funding Application Form](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/World_Community_Service_Funding_Application.pdf?hsLang=en) [Rotary Helps YYC Application Form](https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-oNgBf5-WUuqr1QSM-StoKmuIOu8911FhmmboV_t41hUMzdGU1VTVVRIMFkyREZMWk5PNlg2NzZRVC4u&route=shorturl) ## Make an Impact with a Donation Support Rotary’s impact by donating to the Calgary Rotary Clubs Foundation (CRCF) or to The Rotary Foundation (TRF) of Rotary International. CRCF reinvests funds into local initiatives and also contributes to international projects supported by RCCD. Together these foundations advance meaningful change locally and globally, driving sustainable impact in the communities we serve.  [Donate to CRCF](https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/42669) [Donate to TRF](https://my.rotary.org/en/donate) [![RCDC-Logo-white](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/RCDC-Logo-white.svg "RCDC-Logo-white")](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/?hsLang=en) ## Helpful Links [District 5360](https://rotary5360.ca/) [Rotary International](https://www.rotary.org/en) [Club Bulletins](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-bulletins?hsLang=en) ## Your Membership [Member Login](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/User/Login?ReturnController=Page&ReturnAction=Show&ClassCode=Page&Slug=the-club-hub) [Our Leaders](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-leaders?hsLang=en) [Our Partnerships](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-partnerships?hsLang=en) [Contact Us](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/contact-us?hsLang=en) ## Let’s Talk (403) 398-9969 [admin@rotaryclubofcalgary.ca](mailto:admin@rotaryclubofcalgary.ca) [Facebook icon](https://www.facebook.com/people/Rotary-Club-of-Calgary-Downtown/100076757280542/?_rdr) [Instagram icon](https://www.instagram.com/rotaryyyc/) [X Twitter icon](https://x.com/rotaryyyc) [LinkedIn icon](https://www.linkedin.com/company/rotaryclubofcalgarydowntown/) Powered by [ClubRunner](https://www.clubrunner.ca/) © 2002–2026  All rights reserved. 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