Rotary International surely has great personalities as members and friends across the world, and the life and legacy of Dolly Parton is a beautiful example of how talent can be transformed into service.

Dolly Parton’s relationship with Rotary was strongly connected to her passion for literacy and giving children access to books. In 1996, she established the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, inspired in part by her father, who could not read or write. The programme provides free books to young children, nurturing a love for reading from an early age.

Rotary International became a strong partner in that mission, helping to promote, support and expand the Imagination Library. By 2010, the partnership had grown significantly, with Rotary clubs helping communities participate in the literacy programme. (rotary.org⁠)

At the 2010 Rotary International Convention in Montréal, Canada, Dolly Parton addressed thousands of Rotarians and spoke passionately about literacy, children and the power of service. During the convention, she received Paul Harris Fellow Recognition, one of Rotary Foundation’s most respected honours, recognising significant support for the Foundation’s humanitarian work. (blogdollyp.blogspot.com⁠)

Her Rotary journey reminds us that Rotary is not only about membership—it is about Service Above Self, building partnerships and using one’s gifts and influence to make a difference in the lives of others.

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As Rotary mourns the passing of this extraordinary woman, we celebrate not only the singer, songwriter and entertainer, but also the philanthropist, literacy advocate and friend of Rotary whose work touched millions of lives.

Rest in peace, Dolly Parton.
Your talent entertained the world; your generosity helped educate it. ❤️💞💯

#RotaryInternational #DollyParton #PaulHarrisFellow #ServiceAboveSelf #ImaginationLibrary #Literacy #RotaryFamily