Upcoming meeting:

Meeting September 8, 2008 - International Literacy by RCS Staff

Roy Alexander Chair of the Day

September 8 was proclaimed International Literacy Day by UNESCO on November 17, 1965 and first celebrated in 1966. Its aim is to highlight the importance of literacy to individuals, communities and societies. On International Literacy Day each year, UNESCO reminds the international community of the status of literacy and adult learning globally. Celebrations take place around the world.

Some 774 million adults lack minimum literacy skills; one in five adults is still not literate and two-thirds of them are women; 72.1 million children are out-of-school and many more attend irregularly or drop out.

According to UNESCO's "Global Monitoring Report on Education for All (2006)", South and West Asia has the lowest regional adult literacy rate (58.6%), followed by sub-Saharan Africa (59.7%), and the Arab States (62.7%). Countries with the lowest literacy rates in the world are Burkina Faso (12.8%), Niger (14.4%) and Mali (19%). The report shows a clear connection between illiteracy and countries in severe poverty, and between illiteracy and prejudice against women.

The celebration's theme for 2008 is "Literacy and Health". International Literacy Day 2008 has a strong emphasis on Literacy and Epidemics with a focus on communicable diseases such as HIV, Tuberculosis and Malaria, some of the world's most important public health concerns. Rotaplast Presentations by Staff, RCS Learn about the RCS sponsored Rotaplast mission.

Susan Sheridan and Eric Solis will be discussing the Rotary Club of Sacramento sponsored Rotaplast mission that took place in El Salvador. If you previously missed this presentation, you have two make up opportunities.

September 12th West Sacramento Rotary Club Noon at the Pheasant Club

September 30th West Sac Centennial Rotary 7 am at Baker's Square restaurant 1235 Harbor Blvd. Rotary Youth Exchange Opportunity by RCS Staff

RCS would like to sponsor two outbound students in 2009/2010. This is a unique opportunity for a young person to be an ambassador of goodwill and become fluent in a foreign language. Students live with Rotary host families, attend school and have many in-country travel opportunities. Interviews will begin in November. Contact Thom Gilbert or the RCS office with names of any family member that would like to be considered for the program. Learn more at: Rotary Youth Programs Golf 4 Kids - September 29, 2008 by Staff, RCS You make a difference in children's lives.

Your generous donation supports physical and health impaired children in our area. Funds provide water therapy, adaptive equipment and materials, and much more. Some of these helpful programs would not exist if it were not for this Rotary club. Please consider a sponsorship today. Call Jenifer at 929-2992 for more information. Sponsorship Opportunities