The original idea was started in the UK in 2011 by Lynn Mitchell, a former governor of District 1120, who is the inspiration behind the fabric crocus buttonhole. Lynn developed the idea after picking a purple crocus from her garden and wearing it as a buttonhole, and the idea for the Rotary Crocus pin was born. Lynn’s vision is for the crocus to become the recognisable symbol of Rotary’s work in the eradication of polio. It is hoped that, in years to come, End Polio Now won’t be needed, but the crocus will remain as the symbol of Rotary’s greatest achievement; conquering polio.
When donors wear their Rotary Crocus, they become walking adverts for Rotary and End Polio Now. Each crocus comes with an information card, which tells the story of the polio eradication programme and Rotary’s pivotal role. The information card also provides the wearer with the answer to the question, “that’s a nice flower; what’s it for?”
The purple crocus was chosen because the colour matches the dye painted on the fingers of children who have been immunised against polio.
Currently, the Rotary Crocus pins are only available from the UK, but discussions are underway, with the aim of improving availability and at lower base costs in NZ.
Proactive and positive discussions are ongoing within District 9910 in NZ on the best way to roll out the Rotary Crocus across the district and further afield across all NZ Districts. Anyone wanting clear, unambiguous information about bringing the Rotary Crocus to NZ should contact Rotary Club of Whangaparaoa President Brian Mullan via brian@mullan.com.
