Sip ‘n Spell

Join us for an evening of friendly competition, local brews, and community spirit at Birmingham’s first annual “Sip ‘n Spell” adult spelling bee. This fundraiser will support Rotaract’s Signature Service projects, Ready2Read and Ready2Succeed, which make a lasting impact in our community. Doors will open at 5:30 and we’ll kick off the competition at 6:00. All attendees are invited to participate in the spelling bee.

About Signature Service Projects: Ready2Read and Ready2Succeed

Ready2Read’s chief objective is encouraging a love for reading while increasing vocabulary and critical thinking in 2nd graders at Avondale Elementary and i3 Academy. Early reading proficiency shows educational success and can positively shape children’s lives forever. Data shows that 3rd graders who lag in reading skills are four times more likely to forgo high school diplomas. In Ready2Read, our members read monthly to 2nd grade classes, encouraging critical thinking skills and working to increase their reading comprehension skills. Each session concludes with a child being given the book they’ve been read, aiming to increase their home libraries and spark a reading passion.

Ready2Succeed, our second signature initiative, mentors 10th-12th graders from Parker High School to give them the best chance possible of college acceptances and scholarship awards. Partnering with College Prep Alabama, ACT test preparation and other college readiness services are offered. Each student is matched with a Rotaract mentor, guiding them through college applications, scholarship identification, professional development, and community service. The program boasts a 100% college-acceptance rate among participating seniors. Mentors also offer mock interviews, FAFSA guidance, and goal-setting sessions. In 2016, Rotary International distinguished Ready2Succeed for its innovation and humanitarian excellence.