Dolly Parton and the Legacy She Leaves

Many if not all of you know who Dolly Parton is, singer, songwriter, publisher, writer, and dreamer.  For those that don’t know Dolly had a special connection to Rotary. With the help of Rotarians across the globe, The Imagination Library was able to expand into more homes, countries, and families. By collaborating with Rotary, she was able to help create an enduring network of folks that will continue to create connections through our cities and towns. Rotary International was able to recognize Dolly and even had her speak at the International Convention in Canada in 2010. Her passion and belief that every child deserves the chance to fall in love with reading has been one of the greatest legacies any human can leave behind. With 140 Rotary clubs in our international community partnering with her Foundation’s Imagination Library, we as Rotarians have helped cement that Legacy of love, kindness, and literacy. In Dolly’s words: “Rotary has been a wonderful partner. My hope is simple: that no child will ever have to grow up without books. Our partnership with Rotary is just beginning (c.2010), so I am sure as we grow closer, our dreams will grow.”

For the month of September, we not only honor this dream but allow it to align with Rotary’s September theme of basic education and literacy month. This month we will be collecting books to donate locally here in Salina. If you would rather you can also donate online directly to the Imagination Library at donate.imagintationlibrary.com  Together we can build upon and continue the legacy that Dolly Parton championed.