Rotary members stand in front of a rickshaw they are gifting to a low-income individual
Rotary members hand over a rickshaw to a low-income recipient who can now use it to earn income and serve his community.

By M. M. A. Al Numan Tonmoy, Rotary Club of Habiganj Khoai, Bangladesh 

My Rotary club recently partnered with the N S Foundation of Habiganj to jointly sponsor an auto rickshaw (small taxi) for a needy man who was facing many difficulties in his life including financial. The rickshaw will enable him to earn an income while increasing his dignity and ability to get around.

This is one of the great benefits of a Rotary club – being able to work alongside others who share a desire for service in identifying local needs and helping individuals. Our club has a long history of Service Above Self, and we have tackled problems ranging from healthcare and education to economic assistance for the needy. The N S Foundation is similarly known for its commitment to social welfare, providing a positive impact to communities through a variety of charity programs. Working with other organizations like theirs helps us increase our impact.

What I really like about this project is that it demonstrates how even small actions can have a significant impact. We have made all the difference for this one individual, lifting him out of his unfortunate circumstances. In turn, he is providing a service in the community that has ripple effects. Community members now have another low-cost option for getting around.

I encourage other clubs to aggressively seek out people you can help in your community, and partner with other organizations to expand your reach. It doesn’t have to be a huge project. Even small efforts can produce big rewards. And it will inspire and motivate your members. There is no better feeling than the satisfaction of seeing lives changed.

Through compassion, cooperation, and community-based solutions we can empower people to break out of the cycle of poverty and create a better future for themselves and their family. Working together, we can bring hope to those who need it most.

https://blog.rotary.org/2025/05/21/giving-the-gift-of-hope-and-dignity/