Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852
Every third grader in Barnwell County benefits from a special gift each year through the Rotary Dictionary Project. As part of this annual initiative, students receive their very own dictionaries, presented by the Rotary Club of Barnwell County.
During recent classroom visits, Rotarians spoke with students about the broader work of Rotary both locally and globally, emphasizing work with polio as one of Rotary International’s largest global initiatives. The word “eradicate” took on real meaning as the students learned about Rotary’s decades-long global effort to eradicate polio. Through its PolioPlus initiative, Rotary has helped immunize over 2.5 billion children worldwide in partnership with health organizations, resulting in a 99% reduction in polio cases since 1988. For these young learners, “eradicate” became more than just a dictionary entry, because it was a powerful example of how communities can come together to create lasting change.
The Dictionary Project aligns with one of Rotary International’s core areas of focus: basic education and literacy. Each year, local Rotarians visit every third-grade classroom across the county, in both public and private schools, to personally distribute the dictionaries. Teachers also receive copies to aid classroom instruction, making the project a true countywide effort to enhance literacy.
By equipping every third grader in Barnwell County with a personal dictionary, the Rotary Club helps build vocabulary, strengthen reading skills, and foster a lifelong love of learning. Beyond this project, local Rotarians also promote literacy through initiatives like Little Wooden Libraries, Student of the Month recognitions, and scholarships throughout the year.
"As a journalist and Rotarian, I understand the importance of literacy. It's important for children to become good writers, active readers, resourceful learners, and creative thinkers,” shared Rotary Club President Jonathan Vickery. “The Dictionary Project is a vital component of Rotary's mission to promote literacy and encourage lifelong learning through reading."
This project takes place during World Literacy Month, reflecting Rotary’s broader mission to serve others, promote integrity, and build goodwill and peace through its members and leaders. As Rotary International states, “Basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace.”
This year’s Dictionary Project was funded through a grant from the Tri-County Community Foundation (TCCF). TCCF encourages and promotes philanthropic giving while managing and distributing grants for community projects. TCCF serves the residents of Allendale, Barnwell, and Bamberg counties.
To learn more about the Rotary Club and its work, visit www.rotary.org. If you are interested in membership in the local Rotary Club, please email barnwellrotary@gmail.com.
