Service

Literacy Promotion

Literacy promotion is one of the focus areas for Rotary International. Clubs are encouraged to participate in programs and undertake projects that promote universal literacy and educational opportunities for all. Our club is actively engaged in promoting literacy in our community through our involvement with Gunston Middle School and Literacy Council of Northern Virginia.

Gunston Middle School Literacy Promotion
Gunston Middle School can best be described as a Community of Young Scholars. It is a very diverse center for learning where the student population represents just about every culture in the world. Our club enjoys a very fulfilling partnership with Gunston Middle School where we have the privilege of supporting unique learning opportunities that aid in the student development. Promoting literacy is one of our focus areas.

Braille Reading Sessions – We work with Gunston Middle School to improve student’s reading skills through a reading and mentoring program. Each week, a blind member of our club tutors students in reading sessions by following along with her Braille reader while students read to her from their matching book.

Our club purchased nine Braille readers to match book titles available in the school library. We also procured several Braille readers from the Richmond public library to have a wider title selection for the reading sessions.

Teacher Awards – Every year our club provides monetary Teacher Awards to honor a  teacher selected by their peers and staff as making a positive impact on student literacy skill improvements. We feel it is important to not only create opportunities for students to learn but also recognize teachers that pay a pivotal role in student development and achievement.

Support for Literacy Council of Northern Virginia
The mission of the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia is to teach adults the basic skills of reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English in order to empower them to participate more fully and confidently in their communities.

Our club has forged a partnership with the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia and is a sponsor of their flag ship event: Reading a Family Affair. Our members also volunteer with the Literacy Council to help support their mission.