What is the Purple Pinkie Project?
It’s an activity that’s been done at elementary schools across the country to raise awareness for Rotary International’s polio eradication efforts. In 1985, Rotary International began raising funds in an effort to eliminate polio worldwide. By partnering with the World Health Organization and other government and private groups, Rotary International has achieved a 99 percent reduction of polio worldwide. However, there are still two countries where polio is endemic—Afghanistan and Pakistan. To completely wipe out polio, Rotary International is raising funds and mobilizing volunteers to bring immunization projects to these areas.
We work with schools in Presque Isle and surrounding schools -and partner with other Aroostook County Rotary Clubs and businesses- to raise money for the End Polio Now Campaign. We collect classroom sponsorships, which allow all students, teachers and school staff to participate at no cost to them. Then we visit schools on October 24 - World Polio Day - share facts and information about polio eradication and then "paint" their pinkies purple. Why purple pinkies? Well, each time a Rotary volunteer administers a polio vaccine in impacted countries, a child’s pinkie is colored purple with the topical solution Gentian Violet - temporarily marking him to prevent double dosage. Instead of our students receiving a vaccine and getting a purple pinkie, they’re participation ensures a vaccine is given to a child in need and their purple pinkie helps remind them of the important work they’re helping achieve!
SPONSOR A CLASSROOM
In the past, we have asked students and parents to donate $1 or more (the cost of one polio vaccine) to participate, but have learned this has been prohibitive for some students. In 2020, we launch our classroom sponsor campaign. Classroom sponsors allow for 25 students, teachers, and school staff to participate at no cost to them: ensuring everyone has a chance to participate and learn. The best part? We are still able to raise funds for lifesaving efforts! Want to sponsor a classroom? Complete the form below!
HOST A POP UP PPP LOCATION
In addition to working in local schools, our club also partners with local businesses and organizations to bring pop up Purple Pinkie Project sites to you! Each kit has a PPP poster and enough supplies for your staff, customers, and/or members to participate. Want to be a part of PPP 2023? Contact Us today!
LEARN MORE ABOUT END POLIO
Rotary is an international community that brings together leaders who step up to take on the world’s toughest challenges, locally and globally. The eradication of polio is one of our longest standing and most significant efforts. Along with our partners, we have helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children against polio in 122 countries and we won't stop until we end the disease for good. Learn more