Making a Lasting Impact Through Literacy and Education
District Governor Ryan Boyce highlights the powerful connection between Rotary, education and literacy in his latest message to District 6650. While literacy is often associated with teachers and schools, Ryan reminds Rotarians that Rotary has opportunities to make an impact in many ways—both directly and indirectly.
In his conversation with Brad Stephens, Director of the Salem Public Library and a past president of the Salem Rotary Club, Ryan explores how public libraries serve as important community partners. Libraries provide far more than books. They offer educational programs, technology, tutoring, resources for entrepreneurs, opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, and countless other services designed to meet the needs of their communities.
Ryan encourages Rotary clubs to look to their local libraries for opportunities to collaborate. By combining Rotary’s funding, relationships, expertise and volunteers with the library’s connection to the community, clubs can address local needs and create meaningful change. As Brad Stephens explains, the best place to begin is by identifying where the goals of Rotary and the library align.
Ryan also points to the many ways Rotary supports education beyond traditional literacy programs—from providing access to clean water so students can focus on learning, to supporting resources that improve educational opportunities and quality of life.
The message is simple but powerful: Rotarians have the ability to make a difference. It may take time, effort and commitment, but the impact can change the trajectory of a person's life and even benefit generations to come.
Ryan encourages every Rotary club to reach out to its local public library, ask what needs exist in the community, and discover how Rotary can help. By listening, partnering and putting service into action, District 6650 can continue to Create Lasting Impact.