At Soroptimist International of Mid-Atlantic Online (SI-MAO), we believe that literacy is the foundation for a brighter future. Recently, we celebrated a major milestone in our mission to support local students through a powerful partnership and a shared passion for education.
Why Dictionaries?
The project was inspired by the work of Janet (Jan) Carruthers, Ed.S., and her initiative, Children’s Literacy Publications. Jan, an experienced educator, developed the Illustrated Dictionary of Everyday Things to help close the “vocabulary gap” that many students in high-poverty schools face.
These aren’t just books; they are tools for success. By providing students with their own dictionaries, we are giving them the words they need to thrive academically and unlock opportunities for life.
A Legacy of Literacy
This project is part of a larger, long-standing commitment by our club. Since being introduced to the initiative by member June Wallace in 2015, we have seen the transformative impact these resources have on reading scores and student confidence.
How You Can Help
Projects like this are only possible through community support and collaboration. Whether through donations or volunteering as a tutor, you can help us continue this inspiring work. For more information on the resources we use, visit Children’s Literacy Publications.