Rotary Club of Washington DC Empowers MLK Elementary with Dictionaries

In a heartfelt visit this spring, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC brought their Dictionary Project to Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, home of the District’s central public library. Teachers and students alike gathered as dictionaries were personally handed to each third grader.

Rotarians shared the importance of reading, vocabulary, and lifelong learning—rooted in the Rotary Four‑Way Test and the principles of service. Volunteers emphasized that having a physical dictionary is not just about words—it’s about building confidence, critical thinking, and taking ownership of knowledge.

This event continues RCDC’s legacy of promoting literacy citywide, part of nearly 50,000 dictionaries delivered to DC schools over 10+ years .

Why These Donations Matter

• Boost Literacy: Providing personal dictionaries early builds essential vocabulary and reading skills.

• Community & Civic Engagement: RCDC’s school visits model service, values, and community leadership.

• Deep Impact: RCDC’s sustained commitment—tens of thousands of dictionaries—highlights the power of consistent, local action.