Key Highlights
- The Westfield Lions Club distributed 130 dictionaries to local third-grade students at Maple Glen Elementary School.
- This initiative is part of The Dictionary Project, a national program that has provided over 8,000 dictionaries in the past 12 years in the Westfield Washington School system.
- The Westfield Lions Club also supports various educational and community initiatives beyond the dictionary project.
Community Service and Education: The Impact of Dictionaries on Local Students
The Westfield Lions Club concluded its annual dictionary delivery initiative on October 17, distributing 130 dictionaries to third-grade students at Maple Glen Elementary School. This event aligns with the broader mission of The Dictionary Project, a national program launched in Georgia in 1992 that has reached more than 31 million children across the United States.
The Westfield Lions Club’s Commitment
Launched over a decade ago, this project has not only provided essential tools for learning but also fostered community engagement. Lion Jeff Larrison, who chairs The Dictionary Project, expressed the joy the Lions experience while interacting with the students: “It’s a lot of fun for us Lions to visit with all of these third graders and give them a little background on what the Lions Club is all about.”
Supporting Local Education and Community Initiatives
The Westfield Lions Club’s efforts extend beyond just distributing dictionaries. The organization actively supports various educational and community initiatives, including funding for the Westfield Education Foundation, the Westfield Theater and Choir Boosters, scholarships for Westfield High School seniors, and support for the WHS Culinary Arts Program.
Engagement and Impact
The dictionary project has garnered positive feedback from students, teachers, and school administrators alike. Some students have even heard about the Lions Club before receiving their dictionaries, adding an extra layer of excitement to the distribution process. The engagement with the students has led some to affectionately refer to the Lions as “the book guys.”
Future Plans and Opportunities for Involvement
The Westfield Lions Club invites new members to join their efforts in making a positive impact in the community. Additional information about the club can be found at their website, westfieldlions.org. As the organization continues its mission, it remains committed to supporting local education and community initiatives that benefit both students and residents.
The Westfield Lions Club’s dedication to these causes highlights the importance of community service in enhancing educational outcomes. By providing resources like dictionaries, they are investing in the future success of their youngest learners and fostering a culture of lifelong learning within their schools and communities.
