From Your District Governor - September is Basic Education & Literacy Month 
By: Emma Bodwell, District Governor, Bridgton-Lake Region RC
We’ve turned the page to September — a new month, a new season, and a great moment to reflect on the power of learning.
In Rotary, September is Basic Education and Literacy Month — and whether you’ve handed out dictionaries, built a Little Free Library, supported a backpack drive, or helped a student access a scholarship… you’ve been part of it. Our district is doing incredible things to promote literacy and educational opportunity, both locally and globally.
As a new school year begins in our communities, I invite you to think about how your club can support learning — not just for kids, but for adults, families, and those who face barriers to opportunity.
- Could you mentor?
- Could you donate supplies?
- Could you mentor?
- Could you donate supplies?
- Could you partner with a school, library, or literacy nonprofit?
- Could you tell your story in a way that inspires others to act?
- Could you tell your story in a way that inspires others to act?
My club visits have brought me so much joy — and some great conversations. From welcoming new members to honoring Paul Harris Fellows, from service projects to a recent multi-club cookout, I’m seeing clubs come together in inspiring ways.
One theme that keeps coming up is membership — not just how to grow, but how to engage. How do we make Rotary feel like a place where people belong, where their ideas matter, and where they want to invite others to join them? Keep having those conversations. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — but when we listen, share, and experiment, we find what works for *us*.
If your club hasn’t started the Engagement Tracker yet, this is a great time to pick one stretch goal and get going. Every club starts fresh — and every completed action is worth celebrating!
And here’s a friendly nudge: **Check the District Calendar**! There are amazing events happening beyond your club — speakers, fundraisers, fellowship opportunities, and service projects that other clubs would *love* to have you join. When we show up for each other, we grow stronger together.
Thank you for all the ways you’re uniting for good — in your clubs, in your communities, and in your hearts. I’m proud to serve alongside you.
In service and gratitude,
Emma
District Governor 2025–2026
Rotary District 7780
#UniteForGood