Dickinson Rotary sets record with Literacy Project.
The local initiative distributed 484 dictionaries to third graders in Dickinson, South Heart, and Belfield, highlighting Rotary’s commitment to literacy and education.
Dickinson Rotary Distributes 484 Dictionaries to Third Graders Across Three Communities
The Dickinson Rotary Club wrapped up its annual Dictionary Project by distributing 484 dictionaries to third-grade students in Dickinson, South Heart, and Belfield—an increase of 72 over last year. The program also expanded into three new classrooms, marking over 12 years of continuous efforts to support early literacy in the region. From October 7 to 11, Rotarians visited 25 public and private classrooms to personally deliver the dictionaries and offer a short tutorial on how to use them. The initiative underscores Rotary’s broader mission to promote basic education and literacy at both local and global levels. Dictionaries remain the project’s core tool, chosen for their ability to help students build vocabulary, spark curiosity, and promote self-directed learning. For many students, this is their first personal educational resource, making it both useful and meaningful. Teachers across the three communities consistently praise the program, noting its impact in and out of the classroom. Many report that students eagerly anticipate receiving their dictionaries each year, making it a valued local tradition that fosters a love of learning well beyond the school day.
Expanded Reach Highlights Growing Impact of Dickinson Rotary’s Literacy Efforts.
The 2024 Dictionary Project reached a milestone with the addition of three new classrooms and a record-breaking total of 484 dictionaries distributed. The final delivery took place at Belfield Elementary on October 12, officially concluding this year’s program. This initiative is part of Rotary International’s global mission to combat literacy challenges. With over 775 million people worldwide aged 15 and older still illiterate, programs like this are critical. While the Dickinson project focuses on third graders, it plays a vital role in building foundational skills that lead to long-term academic and personal success. The Rotary Club’s commitment to literacy extends beyond dictionaries. In previous years, the Dickinson Rotary has organized book drives, classroom reading events, and other educational programs aimed at nurturing a love of learning among local students. Research shows that early literacy is one of the strongest predictors of future academic achievement. By providing students with tools like dictionaries, the Rotary Club is helping young learners improve vocabulary, reading comprehension, and independent learning—skills that are essential for lifelong success.
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Supporting Rural Education and Looking Ahead.
In rural communities like South Heart and Belfield, initiatives like the Dictionary Project help close educational gaps by ensuring students have access to essential learning tools. These programs are especially impactful where resources may be limited, giving every child the opportunity to thrive academically.
The Dickinson Rotary Club is committed to continuing the Dictionary Project in the years ahead. By growing its outreach and strengthening partnerships with local schools, the club aims to ensure that every third grader in the region receives a dictionary—fostering literacy, learning, and long-term success.
To learn more about the visit Dickinson Rotary Club and its community initiatives.
