A literacy project organized by the Lowndes County Republican Women has earned first place honors in the National Federation of Republican Women’s Barbara Bush Literacy Program.
The former First Lady selected the Lowndes County chapter’s Project Smithville CHILD (Communities Helping Influence Literacy Development) campaign that raised more than $4,700 and provided in excess of 1,000 new books to rebuild Smithville Elementary School classroom libraries lost to tornado damage in April 2011.
The National Federation of Republican Women launched NFRW Literacy Month in 2002. Each September, local clubs have the opportunity to share their literacy projects, ranging from book donations, tutoring and financial support of literacy programs.
Funds to purchase the books came from contributions by local chapter members as well as Republican Women’s clubs throughout the Magnolia State. Members delivered many of the new books to the Monroe County school in September.
“You may never be asked for your autograph or obtain massive wealth; however, in September, our members accomplished something far greater than fame or fortune,” said Mitzi Younger, 2012 LCRW president. “They touched the lives of children through Project Smithville CHILD. I can think of no greater accomplishment than that.”
The Columbus-based chapter learned of the national honor near the occasion its installation of officers for 2013. National Committeewoman Jeanne Luckey of the Mississippi Republican Party conducted installation and was guest speaker at that event held Dec. 11 at the Lion Hills Golf Club in Columbus.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 37 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.