%20.png)
THE ROTARY CLUB OF HOUSTON
AND THE LOMBARDI AWARD
TM
HONORING EXCELLENCE. ADVANCING SERVICE. FIGHTING CANCER.
Following the passing of legendary football coach Vince Lombardi in 1970, his widow, Marie Lombardi, authorized the Rotary Club of Houston to establish the Rotary Lombardi Award™. Since its inception, the award has stood as a tribute to integrity, perseverance, and teamwork, qualities Coach Lombardi embodied and inspired in others.
Each year, the Rotary Club of Houston proudly presents the Lombardi Award™ to a college football lineman or linebacker who demonstrates not only exceptional athletic ability but also character and leadership on and off the field. Beyond celebrating excellence in sports, the Lombardi Award™ has played a vital role in the fight against cancer, raising millions of dollars to fund life-saving research and patient support initiatives.
ABOUT THE ROTARY CLUB OF HOUSTON
Founded in 1912, the Rotary Club of Houston is proud to be the original Rotary Club in the city and one of the oldest in Texas. For over a century, our members, a diverse group of professionals and community leaders, have been dedicated to “Service Above Self.”
We strive to improve the quality of human life through hands-on service, meaningful partnerships, and global collaboration. Our projects address key community needs while fostering fellowship, leadership, and goodwill both locally and worldwide.
ROTARY CLUB OF HOUSTON MAJOR SERVICE PROJECTS
ROTARY HOUSE
A landmark collaboration with MD Anderson Cancer Center, Rotary House is the largest single project of any Rotary Club in the world. It provides housing and compassionate support for patients and families undergoing cancer treatment.
DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN AWARD
This annual event honors Houston leaders who exemplify service, compassion, and civic responsibility. Proceeds benefit the Rotary Club of Houston Foundation, supporting ongoing service initiatives.
CAMP ENTERPRISE
An immersive, three-day program for high school juniors, offering real-world insights into business, leadership, and teamwork, all guided by accomplished business professionals and mentors.
BURNETT BAYLAND
Established in 1919 and named after former Houston Mayor and club member Burnett Bayland, this initiative supports and mentors at-risk youth under county jurisdiction. It remains the longest continuous service project of any Rotary Club worldwide.
OTHER INITIATIVES
The club also works actively in youth mentoring, support re-entry programs for ex-offenders, and participate in international service projects, including Polio Plus.
THE FOUR-WAY TEST
Since Rotary’s earliest days, members have upheld the highest ethical standards in business and community life. The Four-Way Test, created in 1932 by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor, continues to guide Rotarians worldwide:
Of the things we think, say, or do:
-
Is it the TRUTH?
-
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
-
Will it build GOOD WILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
-
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
And as the Rotary Club of Houston proudly adds:
5. Will it be FUN?
