March is Literacy Month

Working together to improve literacy worldwide For most of us, reading and writing are as natural as breathing. But nearly 800 million adults worldwide lack the literacy skills needed to complete a job application, understand a child’s report card, or read a prescription.

Rotary International and the International Reading Association know that literacy is an essential ingredient for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and conomic development, and promoting peace. Since 2002, RI and the IRA have combined their resources and skills to advance literacy in communities worldwide by

• Providing books and educational materials

• Building and supporting schools

• Mentoring students

• Training teachers

• Establishing literacy programs for children and adults

Whether through volunteering your time and expertise, providing financial support, or building awareness, you can empower people and communities through literacy.