“At The Fred Hollows Foundation we share a deep respect for Rotary’s variety of humanitarian service projects around the world and are very proud of our partnership,” says Foundation Founding Director Gabi Hollows.

The partnership between The Fred Hollows Foundation and Rotarians ‘Down Under’ was forged in 2003, with a shared commitment to prevent blindness in the developing world and improve the lives and health of Indigenous Australians.

This partnership formalised a connection that goes back a long way, for Rotarians are great believers in direct action and have long recognised a kindred spirit in Fred Hollows.

Helping The Foundation get on its feet

In 1991, Rotary International named Fred Hollows a Paul Harris Fellow and, in May 1993, Fred posthumously received the Rotary Award for World Understanding, which acknowledged his pioneering medical work with Indigenous Australians and in developing countries.

Fred’s wife Gabi Hollows accepted the award and was presented at the same time with a cheque from Rotary for US$100,000.

It was this gift that enabled The Foundation to get on its feet.

Gabi Hollows has worked tirelessly for The Foundation since its inception and in 1995 she too was made a Paul Harris Fellow. In 2006 Gabi became an Honorary Rotarian.

A no-nonsense approach

Fred’s vision was of a world where no one is needlessly blind and where Indigenous Australians enjoy the same health as other Australians. Rotary helps The Fred Hollows Foundation keep that dream alive.

Rotary 'Down Under' has raised tens of thousands of dollars to help The Foundation continue Fred’s very practical work throughout Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Pacific.
 It’s a no-nonsense approach – working with communities, local partners, doctors and other health workers to get results.

How to get your Rotary Club involved

Your club can get involved by raising awareness of The Foundation's programs and by raising funds to guarantee their long-term future.

Clubs have the option of making a regular annual pledge, which allows The Foundation to plan and develop programs more effectively.

Rotarians are also welcome to make personal pledges.

The Fred Hollows Foundation would like to thank these Rotary Clubs for their fantastic support.