There's not much one can teach Rotarians when it comes to literacy matters.  Following John Moss's (Wolverton & Stony Stratford) presentation to District Council on 15th July, 58% (31) of our Clubs are now supporting the Dictionary for Life (D4L) project. It clearly touched a verb.

With their support and a good chunk of DDF contributed by our Foundation Committee the matching grant application, signed by DG Sandy, on behalf of participating Clubs, was sent off on 27th July, and approved by the Trustees on 31st August. The project will distribute at least 4,110 dictionaries to over 50 schools in KwaZula Natal, S.A., with the help of our friends in the RC of Ballito. The net cost of each Dictionary to Clubs, after TRF & District support, should work out at around 90p with Customs and other charges built in.

Ballito is a small Club of just 12 or so members. Yet it has successfully handled 8 matching grants in recent years. It and many of the schools that will benefit from the project are well known to John who will be paying them another visit in October.

Having been advised that the project had been submitted Simon Swan, Ballito's President wrote " Well done! On behalf of my Club we thank you for an amazing example of 'humanity in motion'.  Let's pray the dream comes true and we can look back on a job well done. Much has still to be done, but with a team like this ... what next!  But ... next time not so fast please. 12 days in Africa is quick ... very quick. For all you Rotarians 'Out of Africa'  you have truly reached out. Thank you". 

Whilst the Government will fund teaching support it does not have funds to build schools, let alone provide text materials for the learners. Pictorial dictionaries are not on their radar. Photo right: Philippe Lamoise

A resume of the project together with public recognition for contributing clubs can be seen on Philippe's On-Line Fair for Matching Grants site.

If your Club was considering supporting this literacy project but have not yet advised us, that's not a problem. We can take your pledges with cash through to December and add your contribution to the D4L order which is due to be placed on or before 31st of December. Just email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   with your pledge and send a cheque to Ass. Treasurer, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   payable to D1260 (Foundation) and marked D4L on the back.  Thanks.

On hearing about the project Natty Moodley, DG of Ballito's District (9270) commented "Congratulations to all the parties involved and may your success forever be a stepping stone towards great friendships." A fitting comment on Rotary's peace and friendship goals, and why perhaps we do what we do & enjoy Rotary at its best.