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Stories of Service and Impact from Our Rotary Club
Riverbend Rotary Literacy Grant
Riverbend Rotary Literacy Grant Benefits West Elementary School in Alton
Empowering young minds! 📚✨ Our West Elementary librarian and principal addressed the Riverbend Rotary members and our enthusiastic grade school students today, celebrating the joy of reading with new books. Together, we're building a brighter future, one story at a time!
(ALTON, IL) – The Racial Justice Committee of YWCA Southwestern Illinois recently gifted over 150 books to West Elementary School in Alton, thanks to a $1,700 grant awarded to the Rotary Club of the Riverbend Alton-Godfrey. Rotarians from the Club, also known as Riverbend Rotary, and representatives from the YWCA recently delivered the books to TaRael Kee, the new principal of West Elementary.
TaRael, along with School Librarian Steve Doering and students in the library were on hand to receive the books. “Many thanks to the Riverbend Rotary and YWCA for taking time to think about us and our children. These books will go a long way,” says TaRael, noting that he and the teachers have ambitious goals for students at West Elementary and they believe the students have potential to reach those goals.
“These kids lit up when they saw the books -- they noticed that the books’ characters are like them and look like them.”
“We are excited to partner with the YWCA and West Elementary School on this important literacy project,” says Monica Bristow, a founding member of Riverbend Rotary and immediate past-president who helped to secure the grant. “A primary goal of Rotary International is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education and increase adult literacy, and this project certainly is a match.”
Second grade through fifth grade students at West will benefit from the books, says Dorothy Hummel, executive director of the YWCA. “We love improving our local school libraries with new engaging and diverse books,” says Dorothy.
Second grade books explore a treasure trove of literature celebrating African American and BIPOC voices across history, STEM, fiction and more. Featuring 100+ engaging books, this collection introduces young readers to inspiring figures, diverse narratives, and cultural perspectives, encouraging curiosity and empathy. From historical achievements to imaginative tales, these books ignite a passion for learning while promoting inclusivity in the classroom.
Third and fourth grade books delve into a world of knowledge and discovery, spotlighting African American and BIPOC literature across various genres. With carefully curated books celebrating cultural diversity in history, STEM, and fiction, students explore diverse perspectives, fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness. Each book serves as a gateway to expanding knowledge, embracing diversity, and nurturing inclusive classrooms.
And fifth grade books embark on an enlightening journey through African American and BIPOC literature across STEM, historical narratives, and fiction. Featuring several dozen diverse books, this collection empowers students to explore diverse cultures, scientific advancements, and inspiring stories that encourage empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for inclusivity in literature and education.
“Our Racial Justice Committee worked closely with Eye See Me, a book store in St. Louis that features many wonderful multi-cultural books,” adds Dorothy. In addition, the Racial Justice Committee ordered copies of We’re Different, We’re the Same, The Awesome Kids Guide to Race, A is for Activist, as well as Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You from Amazon.
The YWCA is just one of several organizations that benefit from grants and fundraising efforts by Riverbend Rotary. Rotarians are community volunteers who are committed to making an impact in our local communities through service, collaboration and empowerment. Riverbend Rotary supports local infant and child wellness and safety outreach efforts, with recent financial gifts given to the YWCA, Riverbend Head Start & Family Services and Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
Weekly club meetings for Riverbend Rotary are held every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm at Senior Services Plus in Alton. For more information about membership in Riverbend Rotary, visit RiverbendRotary.com.
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What is Rotary?
You've certainly heard about it, but do you really know what is ROTARY? There are several chapters around your neighborhood.
Riverbend Rotary
Our commitment to making a difference extends beyond our local community to create lasting change on a global scale.
We are proud to be part of international efforts, such as END POLIO NOW, which showcases the power of collaboration and dedication in achieving shared goals.
However, our most significant impact
is felt right here in the Riverbend area, where our passion for service and community development is truly transformative.
Our club members work tirelessly to champion local causes, support community projects, and drive sustainable initiatives that enrich the lives of our neighbors.
From mentoring youth and promoting education to fostering environmental stewardship and addressing social challenges, Riverbend Rotary is a catalyst for positive change.
We invite you to join us in our mission to create a brighter future for our community and the world, one project at a time.
About Rotary District 6460
The Rotary motto: Service Above Self. Rotary, the world’s first service club organization, is a worldwide organization of more than 1.2 million business, professional, and community leaders.
Members of Rotary clubs, known as Rotarians, provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.
Rotary District 6460 contains Rotary clubs that serve west central Illinois in the United States of America.
Nourishing
Hope
Riverbend Rotary Packs Nutritious Meals for Hungry Children in Nicaragua
Shred Day
Safeguarding Identities and Supporting Our Community through Secure Document Disposal
Caring for
Our Community
Riverbend Rotary Members Beautify Local Homes by Tidying Yards and Landscapes
Ringing in the
Spirit of Giving
Riverbend Rotary Members Support the Salvation Army's Mission to Transform Lives
Started from the vision of one person.
Today, polio remains endemic only in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000.
1.4 million friends, neighbors, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
Just A Little Help Can Make Big Difference
1.2 million
There are over 36,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas worldwide, with approximately 1.2 million members.
$4 Billion
The Rotary Foundation, which supports Rotary's humanitarian and educational programs worldwide, has invested over $4 billion in life-changing, sustainable projects since it was founded in 1917.
$2.1 Billion
Rotary in the USA has played a key role in the global effort to eradicate polio, with Rotary members contributing over $2.1 billion and countless volunteer hours to the cause.
Rotary International's Unwavering Mission: Eradicating Polio and Empowering a Polio-Free World.
Rotary International has been at the forefront of the global fight against polio for over three decades, working tirelessly to eradicate this devastating disease.
Through strategic partnerships with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Rotary has made remarkable strides in immunization efforts, reaching millions of children in even the most remote corners of the world.
Since launching the PolioPlus program in 1985, Rotary International and its partners have helped to reduce polio cases by 99.9%, saving countless lives and preventing lifelong disabilities.
The continued dedication and support of Rotary members worldwide are crucial in achieving a polio-free world, ensuring that future generations can live without the fear of this debilitating disease.
Join us in our unwavering commitment to end polio once and for all, and be part of a global movement that is truly transforming lives and making history.
