Greetings, Rotarians for District 5400!
 
As I visit clubs, either assisting with their fundraisers, helping on a service project, or speaking to the membership, I am amazed at the commitment of our members to “Create Hope in the World”.
 
September’s theme for Rotary is Basic Education and Literacy! This is also one of Rotary’s seven areas of focus. Over 776 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate, that is 17% of the world’s population. Imagine the hope that is created when a child learns to read. Reading is a lifelong tool that is important to navigate life.
 
imageRotarians in our District are supporting these efforts in a multitude of ways: Little Libraries in areas that may not have easy access to libraries; school supplies for children, providing Dictionaries to third graders, providing books for elementary schools, and reading to classrooms. As you continue to serve, please consider options to advance the literacy of the world. We are Rotarians and we do make a difference. The Basic Education and Literacy Rotary Action Group is an incredible way to get more involved. Here is a link to this resource
 
September is also a time when we celebrate Community Week!  Some of our clubs are joining together with other service clubs in their area (Optimists, Lions, and Kiwanis) the week of September 11th through 17th 2023.  If you would like to know more: Rotary Community Week of Service
 
We could Create more Hope in the World by creating Peace? The United Nations International Day of Peace is on September 21st, 2023. This year's theme is Actions for Peace: It is a call to action that recognizes our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace. As Rotarians, let’s continue to be People of Action so that Peace will prevail. 
 
It is a privilege to serve with each of you!   
Marie Baker