PROBUS is a worldwide movement in 23 countries. The success of the organization is seen through the commitment of members and the wide recognition of Probus as a community service program. PROBUS originated in England, with the development of two community-based social clubs in the 1960s, formed to meet the social and intellectual needs of retired professionals and businessmen.

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The first PROBUS Club in North America was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Galt in Cambridge, Ontario in 1987. PROBUS Clubs today exist in all parts of the world, including the U.S., Belgium, India, South Africa and several other countries in Africa and Asia.

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PROBUS Clubs worldwide are no longer service organizations; they are formed to provide social events, schedule speakers, and keep members up-to-date with community issues and happenings. PROBUS Clubs pride themselves on their independence and freedom from the responsibilities of a service club. Their structure is simple, and members are not required to attend a minimum number of meetings.

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Many members have formed smaller interest groups within the clubs for hobbies such as: sports, entertainment, cards, fishing, travel, investing, and many others.

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PROBUS Clubs have no central governing body but PROBUS Centres have been established country-by-country to disseminate information and assist clubs. Offices are staffed largely by volunteers and operating costs are met by member contributions. PROBUS is a social club for retired or semi-retired like-minded men and women. It provides regular meetings and activities for retirees members who appreciate and value opportunities to meet others with similar interests and energy.

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The PROBUS Club of Orangeville currently has about 185 members.