The 4-7-8-17 framework
Four layers, 36 ways to describe what a project does. Choose any one to read more.
The Four-Way Test
Every project starts here. If an idea cannot pass these four questions, it does not move forward.
- Is it the truth?Honest about needs, costs, and results.
- Is it fair to all concerned?Designed with the people it serves, not just for them.
- Will it build goodwill and better friendships?Leaves partners closer than when it began.
- Will it be beneficial to all concerned?Creates value that lasts after the volunteers leave.
Rotary Areas of Focus
Each project aligns with at least one of the seven causes Rotary members commit to worldwide.
- Promoting peacePreventing conflict and building understanding.
- Fighting diseasePrevention, treatment, and stronger local care.
- Providing clean water, sanitation and hygieneSafe water and sanitation people can maintain.
- Saving mothers and childrenHealthier births and early childhoods.
- Supporting educationLiteracy, teachers, and schools that work.
- Growing local economiesDecent work and local entrepreneurs.
- Supporting the environmentProtecting the land and sea communities depend on.
Pillars of Positive Peace
Positive Peace is the set of conditions that keep societies stable. Strong projects strengthen at least one pillar.
- Well functioning governmentInstitutions that deliver and are trusted.
- Sound business environmentConditions where enterprise can grow.
- Equitable distribution of resourcesFair access to health, education, and income.
- Acceptance of the rights of othersTolerance and respect for every group.
- Good relations with neighborsCooperation between communities and nations.
- Free flow of informationOpen, accurate information people can act on.
- High levels of human capitalSkills, health, and education that build a future.
- Low levels of corruptionResources reach the people they are meant for.
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Mapping each project to the Global Goals shows its impact in a language the whole world shares.
- 1No poverty
- 2Zero hunger
- 3Good health and well being
- 4Quality education
- 5Gender equality
- 6Clean water and sanitation
- 7Affordable and clean energy
- 8Decent work and economic growth
- 9Industry, innovation and infrastructure
- 10Reduced inequalities
- 11Sustainable cities and communities
- 12Responsible consumption and production
- 13Climate action
- 14Life below water
- 15Life on land
- 16Peace, justice and strong institutions
- 17Partnerships for the goals