A Partnership that Makes a Difference
This week, Rotary Halifax Harbour, in partnership with Irving Shipbuilding, contributed a total of $6,500 to provide school supplies for every student at Joseph Howe Elementary. Irving Shipbuilding generously contributed $5,000, and our club added $1,500 to make this initiative a reality. By providing these vital supplies, we are not only easing the financial burden on families but also ensuring that every student starts the year with the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
In the photo featured above, Michael MacDonald, the principal of Joseph Howe Elementary School, proudly accepts the cheque from Dav Kowlessar, the president of Rotary Halifax Harbour.
What is PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools)?
This initiative is part of our PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) program, a unique collaboration that brings together local businesses, organizations, and community members to support our schools in both financial and practical ways. PALS aims to address the immediate needs of local schools while fostering a strong sense of community involvement and responsibility. Through this program, businesses like Irving Shipbuilding provide not just monetary support but also the invaluable gift of volunteer time and resources, showing our young learners that their community truly cares about their success.
At Rotary Halifax Harbour, we believe that education is the foundation upon which communities are built. A strong educational foundation empowers children to achieve their full potential, break the cycle of poverty, and become leaders in their communities. When children have access to quality education and the necessary supplies to learn effectively, it sets them on a path toward lifelong success.
The Importance of Basic Education and Literacy
Why do we, as Rotarians, emphasize Basic Education and Literacy? The answer is simple: education is a right, not a privilege. Globally, Rotary supports initiatives that provide better access to education for children and adults, reduce gender disparity in education, and improve the quality of education—especially for those most marginalized. We believe that promoting literacy and basic education can break the cycle of poverty and empower communities to achieve sustainable development.
During Basic Education and Literacy Month, we highlight the various ways Rotary clubs worldwide are working to achieve these goals—whether through providing scholarships, building schools, training teachers, or, like in our case, ensuring that local students have the school supplies they need.
Our Commitment to the Community
Our commitment to Joseph Howe Elementary extends beyond September. Through initiatives like PALS, we continue to support and strengthen our education system throughout the year. We believe that partnerships with local businesses and community members are crucial to achieving our vision of a world where everyone has access to education and lifelong learning.
As we celebrate Basic Education and Literacy Month, we also celebrate the incredible power of community and collaboration. We are proud to stand alongside Irving Shipbuilding, Joseph Howe Elementary, and our amazing volunteers in making a difference—one student at a time.
A Big Thank You to Our Partners
A heartfelt thank you to Irving Shipbuilding for their generous contribution and to all our volunteers and supporters who have helped make this initiative possible. Together, we are creating a brighter future for our youth and investing in the leaders of tomorrow. 🌟
If you’re inspired by our work and want to get involved, reach out to us at Rotary Halifax Harbour. Let’s continue to build strong, educated, and empowered communities together!
