September is Literacy Month, an opportunity for Rotarians to focus our awareness of literacy and education needs in our own communities and internationally.  
 
Now, just in time for Literacy Month, BELRAG (Basic Education and Literacy Rotary Action Group) and Save the Children are pleased to announce a funding opportunity to support clubs’ innovative approaches to early childhood education in rural America. 
 
In June 2018, Rotary and Save the Children US embarked on a partnership, “Together We Read,” to increase literacy rates in rural communities through research-based early learning initiatives.
 
The partnership unites Save the Childrens expertise in children’s early literacy programs with Rotarys expertise in connecting community leaders and driving public awareness – all with the aim of increasing educational outcomes for young children living in poverty.
 
This initiative offers Rotary Clubs an opportunity to apply to for funding of $5,000-$10,000 for community-based initiatives that support Kindergarten readiness and early literacy. Up to 10 projects will be funded. Proposals are due Sept. 30, 2021.  
 
See attached RFP for criteria, project examples, and application form.
 
This is an excellent opportunity for Rotarians to receive support for their involvement in early education and literacy projects in their own communities.    
 
BELRAG is pleased to partner with Save the Children on this initiative and appreciates their generosity in funding these grants for US based Rotary literacy projects.
 
Together, we will ensure that every child and adult has opportunity to lead productive, fulfilling lives as literate individuals.  
 
If you would like more information about BELRAG and our outreach, please visit our website  www.BELRAG.org.
 
 
Carolyn Johnson
Yarmouth (Maine) Rotary, District 7780 Governor, 2013-14

Chair, Basic Education & Literacy Rotary Action Group (BELRAG)
Vice-Chair, TRF Cadre of Technical Advisors, Basic Education & Literacy (2021-2024)
Water Sanitation & Hygiene in Schools Target Challenge Committee
District 7780 Global Grants Chair (2021-2024)