DG Jim's Corner September 2025
Dear Fellow Rotarians.
As we turn the page to September, I am reminded of all the Good we do in the world, Rotary observes Basic Education and Literacy Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, fostering global action, and celebrating Rotary’s unwavering commitment to literacy and education. During this month, Rotarians worldwide Unite for Good, focusing their energies on projects that promote learning, improve schools, and ensure that children and adults alike can unlock their full potential through education.
Rotary International Basic Education and Literacy Month
Rotary International has identified basic education and literacy as one of its seven areas of focus. Rotarians believe that by investing in education, they lay the groundwork for lasting change. Rotary’s efforts span a wide array of initiatives, from building schools and libraries to training teachers and providing educational materials.
Across District 7120, Rotary clubs initiate a multitude of impactful projects not only during Basic Education and Literacy Month but throughout the year. Some notable examples include:
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Dictionary Distribution: Clubs provide dictionaries and reference books to students, enhancing their vocabulary and reading comprehension.
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Mobile Libraries: In rural or remote areas, Rotary Clubs support mobile library initiatives that bring books to children who might otherwise have no access to reading material.
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Technology in Education: Recognizing the importance of digital literacy, Rotary provides computers, tablets, and internet access to underserved schools, bridging the digital divide.
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Building Infrastructure: Rotary clubs frequently partner with local governments to construct and renovate schools, ensuring that children have access to safe, stimulating learning environments.
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Scholarships and Educational Materials: In regions where poverty restricts opportunities, Rotary provides scholarships, books, computers, and other resources, enabling students to continue their education and access modern tools for learning.
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Adult Literacy Programs: Recognizing that education does not stop in childhood, Rotarians organize adult literacy classes, empowering individuals with reading, writing, and numeracy skills.
For more information, please join us Saturday, September 27th for our District Literacy Seminar from 9 am to 12pm at Clifton Springs Hospital - Rotary room 2 Coulter Rd Clifton Springs NY.
Interact Clubs
*Education and Literacy month reminds us of the Role of Interact Clubs in shaping youth through Education and Service. At this time let me introduce our District 7120 Interact Committee, Chair Andrew Ashley & Michelle Bailey. They are working hard to update Clubs on the statis of their Interact Clubs. One of the important requirements is to update your Interact Advisor at least every 2 years your Interact clubs charter could be pulled and the Interact club would show termination with RI. Please see their Article in the Grapevine below. Please feel free to contact them if you have questions.
Rotary Youth Leadership Award
As well, Under the guidance of dedicated Rotarians, Our RYLA team has fostered the development of countless future leaders, equipping them with the tools, confidence, and vision needed to drive change both locally and globally. In this spirit of growth and innovation, our new RYLA Chair, Carrie Grove, has undertaken the task of building the next Rotary Youth Leadership Award program with unwavering energy and commitment. She and her team are working hard building our next Rotary Youth Leadership Award program. For more information go to our District Website under Youth Services - RYLA
Yours in Rotary
Jim Crane
District 7120
Governor 2025-2026