October is National Book Month, a time to honor the power of reading to open doors and transform lives. For the Guatemala Literacy Project (GLP), this month is also about celebrating Rotary’s commitment to making that transformation possible.
Because of Rotarians like you, children across Guatemala are breaking the cycle of poverty through the gift of books. Together, we are proving that literacy is one of the most powerful tools for change.
Spotlight: Las Camelias School
For more than 20 years, the community of Las Camelias has renewed its GLP-supported textbook program not once, but four times. Though their school is small, with just 100 students, more than 800 children have studied with GLP textbooks since the program began.
Textbook renewals are more than paperwork; they are a pledge. Families contribute a small fee each year that goes into a revolving fund, which ensures textbooks are replaced about every five years. This self-sustaining model means that students at Las Camelias will always have access to updated, high-quality learning materials.
As one student, Alfredo, explains:
“I hope to earn enough money in the future to help my parents when they’re older. For my community, I’d like schools to have more resources, like supplies and making it safer for kids who walk long distances.”
His classmate Sonia adds:
“I want to be remembered as someone who faced challenges, kept dreaming, and always lived with joy.”
Behind every number is a young person like Alfredo or Sonia, using education to imagine new futures.
From Illiteracy to Opportunity
National Book Month reminds us that the simple gift of a book can create ripples that last a lifetime. And none of this progress would be possible without the dedication of Rotarians like you.
Because of your support through the Guatemala Literacy Project, illiteracy rates in Guatemala have dropped from two-thirds of the population to just one-third. Every pledge, every visit, and every hour of service has contributed to this achievement.
When Rotary and GLP work together, the impact is clear: communities gain the tools to sustain their own programs, and children gain the skills to build brighter futures.
How You Can Help:
- Make your pledge today with our easy online form.
- Share this international service opportunity with your club and district.
- Visit our programs in Guatemala to see your impact firsthand.
The pledge deadline is December 1, 2025!
Thank you, Rotarians, for celebrating National Book Month with us. More importantly, thank you for leading the fight against illiteracy. Together, we have already cut illiteracy rates in half, and together we will keep transforming Guatemala.