September is Basic Education & Literacy Month in Rotary, one of our Seven Areas of Focus and the foundation for health, opportunity, and peace. In this episode of Service Above Self, District Governor Heidi Schiller and District Governor-Elect Chuck Shonkwiler welcome Nancy Leonhardt, Chair of the Basic Education & Literacy Rotary Action Group (BELRAG) and Past District Governor of District 6150.

Nancy shares her Rotary journey and the mission of BELRAG, offering practical ways clubs can strengthen literacy in their own communities and beyond. From Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to laundromat mini-libraries, global grants, and adult literacy programs, this conversation highlights resources, success stories, and the impact of education at every age.

🔑 Topics Covered

• Why literacy is foundational to all Rotary Areas of Focus
• How BELRAG supports clubs with resources and expertise
• Creative literacy projects — from laundromats to Little Free Libraries
• The importance of adult literacy and addressing stigma

The episode closes with important District 6670 updates, including the Zones 30 & 31 Institute, Rotary Leadership Institute on October 18, and the return of Sing Out Polio on October 23.

🌐 Resources
BELRAG Website: bellrag.org

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🎙️ Service Above Self: Rotary D6670 is a monthly podcast celebrating the service, leadership, and community impact of our 45 clubs across southwest Ohio.

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