Why the Guatemala Literacy Project Works—and What We Can Learn

Send us Fan MailWhat if giving a child a book could change the fate of an entire village?In this powerful episode of Voices of District 7020, host Rotarian Nerissa sits down with Past President Chris Bailey of the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman to explore one of Rotary’s most transformative international service initiatives—the Guatemala Literacy Project (GLP).From stories of unimaginable poverty to moments of hope, resilience, and full-circle impact, Chris shares how GLP evolved from a grassroots fellowship tour to one of Rotary’s largest and most effective multi-district, multi-club partnerships. You'll hear the moving story of Sergio, a young boy whose birthday sandwich turned into a scholarship, a degree, and a thriving career.Together, Nerissa and Chris unpack the key ingredients that make GLP sustainable—from teacher training and family outreach to community-led continuity and cultural alignment. Whether you're a Rotarian, an educator, or simply someone who believes in the power of service, this episode will leave you inspired to think bigger about literacy, equity, and the long game of change.🔗 Learn more or sponsor a student at: GuatemalaLiteracy.org