The Rotary Club of Columbus, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Smyrna and the Rotary Club of Vinings Cumberland, has raised $6,375 to support life-changing cleft lip and palate surgeries for children in Bolivia. Through Rotary Foundation matching grants and the service of volunteer surgeons, the funds will provide more than $170,000 in medical care.

The international service project addresses the significant challenges faced by Bolivian children born with a cleft lip or palate. Without access to treatment, these children may experience lifelong difficulties with eating, speaking and hearing, as well as barriers to social acceptance.

Thanks to Rotary grants, matching funds and volunteer medical professionals, every dollar donated to the project will generate approximately $27 in care—multiplying the impact of each gift and giving children the opportunity to live healthier, more confident lives.

“This project is a powerful example of what Rotary can accomplish when compassion is combined with collaboration,” said Jim Gordon, president of the Rotary Club of Columbus. “Together, we turned $6,375 in generosity into more than $170,000 in care for children who need it most.”

The Bolivia Cleft Palate Project reflects Rotary’s commitment to improving health, expanding access to essential medical care and creating lasting change in communities around the world.

Rotarians have always believed that one of the greatest ways to change the world is by changing one life at a time. Through this partnership, the Rotary clubs continue their proud tradition of Service Above Self.