A dictionary teaches a child how to approach a problem and use critical thinking skills by sounding out the word and finding it in the dictionary. This simple task gives them a feeling of self-confidence and satisfaction that they cannot get online.

Lyn Morgan, Community Foundation of Bartholomew County, Columbus, IN

This is the eighth year for our project. The project leaders agree that a small grant can make an impact but a small grant organized through a strong partnership can make a significant impact. The joy on students? faces, creative thank-you letters and positive feedback from parents and teachers have inspired project partners to make The Dictionary Project an annual event. Kathy Irvine, a third-grade teacher at Smith Elementary – ‘The project really sets kids on fire. Before, we had a few dictionaries students could share, but they were old and worn out. Having their own dictionaries empowers them to look up new words on their own, rather than wait for me or just skip it.’

Lyn Morgan, Community Foundation of Bartholomew County, Columbus, IN

This is the seventh year for our local project. It is extremely popular with parents, teachers, retired teachers, students and donors.