Rotary International is the world's first service club organization. Its more than 1.2 million members (in more than 31,000 clubs) volunteer their time and talent to further the Rotary motto, Service Above Self. Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations and helps promote world understanding and peace.
Paul P. Harris, an attorney, founded the original Rotary Club in Chicago on February 23, 1905. He suggested the name "Rotary" because the meetings were rotated from office to office in the early days of the organization.
Grapevine Rotary Club was the dream of Ira E. Woods, mayor of the city of Grapevine in the 1960's. Dr. Woods had the vision of transforming this small farming community to the unique town it is today. Under his direction, the club was chartered in 1967. The selection of the original meeting place was a formidable challenge since Grapevine had no restaurants. Meetings were held at the Old Austin Patio Ranch (the site of the current Hilton Lakes Hotel). Most meetings were held on the large outdoor patio. Early programs focused on the development of the DFW "regional airport". One of the most memorable programs was George W. Bush, then president of the Texas Rangers Ball Club. Grapevine was one of the first local Rotary Clubs to embrace the inclusion of women. Two women have since held the office of President.