Community, Conversation, and Literacy: Reflections from Macon North Rotary

We were honored to share our Cooking Up Literacy initiative with the Macon North Rotary Club. Special thanks to Tera Edwards for the warm introduction and hospitality. We are grateful for the encouraging conversations, community connections, and shared commitment to helping children and families learn, grow, and thrive together.

This week, I had the privilege of sharing the Cooking Up Literacy initiative with the Macon North Rotary Club alongside Daniel and Alonna, youth co-authors of the What’s Stirring: Fun, Food & Family series. It was an encouraging experience that reminded me of the power of community, relationships, and a shared commitment to helping children and families thrive.

Our presentation focused on a simple idea: literacy can become more meaningful when it is woven into family experiences. Through shared reading, conversation, hands-on learning, and family engagement, Cooking Up Literacy creates opportunities for children and caregivers to learn together in ways that feel welcoming, practical, and enjoyable.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the afternoon was seeing how strongly the Rotary members connected with the vision. The questions, conversations, and encouragement reflected a genuine desire to support children, families, and educational opportunities throughout the community.

We were especially grateful for the community connections that emerged from the presentation. Several Rotary members expressed interest in introducing us to schools, libraries, and organizations that serve children and families, while others shared valuable contacts and partnership ideas. These conversations often lay the groundwork for meaningful collaborations that expand opportunities for family literacy and community engagement. We are also grateful to those who have supported our work behind the scenes by helping create pathways to new relationships and community partnerships.

I was also reminded that community impact is never accomplished alone. Every successful initiative depends on individuals and organizations willing to open doors, share resources, make introductions, and connect people around a common purpose. We are grateful for those who serve as community connectors, helping us reach families who can benefit from literacy-rich experiences.

As our work continues to grow, we remain committed to creating opportunities for families to read, learn, and grow together. We are always interested in connecting with schools, libraries, family resource centers, civic organizations, and community partners who share a passion for literacy, family engagement, and lifelong learning. We also welcome sponsors who believe in investing in children and families through community-based literacy experiences.

The Rotary presentation reminded me that meaningful change often begins with a conversation. One introduction can lead to a partnership. One partnership can create new opportunities for families. And one family experience can leave an impact that lasts for generations.

Thank you to the Macon North Rotary Club for the warm welcome, thoughtful engagement, and encouragement. We look forward to continuing the journey together and building stronger literacy connections throughout our communities.

Helping families read, learn, and grow together—one family at a time.