Rotary Club of Ellwood City Awarded $1000 District Simplified Grant

The Rotary Club of Ellwood City received a grant to support the reading clubs at the Ellwood City Area Public Library.

The Rotary District Simplified Grant is a matching funds grant that is designed to help local Rotary Clubs use a portion of their foundation contributions.

Ellwood City Rotary has been awarded grants for area projects as well as international projects.

This year, the club once again focuses on local support in recognition of the Ellwood City Area Public Library’s efforts to engage teens in book discussion.

Participation in book discussions groups allows readers to express their thoughts and views in an open, non-judgement environment, to better understanding of books and writing styles and to exam themes and important social issues.

Readers engaged in book discussion develop a better understanding of varying opinions and develop a fluency to read smoothly and develops skills of expression.   The Rotary Club purchased books for 3 of the teen reading groups. Each book has a book plate and Rotary bookmark.

Director and Rotarian, Veronica Pacella takes a moment from each meeting to inform the readers about Rotary, civic engagement and the importance of volunteering.

“Book discussion provides and outlet for even the quietest teen to share their thoughts and creativity. Rotary of Ellwood City is excited to be able to support these book discussion groups, its is an avenue for teens not only to speak up but understand the community around them.  Book discussions a form of Social Literacy and for teens to have an opportunity to express themselves develops a self confidence that they will carry for a lifetime”, commented Jean Barsotti, Rotarian and Director of the Carnegie Free Library of Beaver Falls.