The Calhoun-Gordon Council for a Literate Community launched a campaign entitled “Get the Lead Out and Erase Illiteracy,” which solicited donations of pencils, erasers and other basic school supplies in July and wrapped up the project less than a month later with more than 32,000 pencils.

Just in time for the new school year, the Council not only was able to distribute the pencils to every pre-k, primary and elementary school in Gordon County, but also was able to share their bounty with the Boys & Girls Club and Voluntary Action Center.

Financial support for the project covered all the campaign costs and generated a profit sufficient to fund a significant technology request from Calhoun Primary School.

“All in all, ‘Get the Lead Out’ was a huge success and the Council is thrilled at the overwhelming success we experienced,” said Joni Harbin, Executive Director. “We never dreamed that we would receive the level of support we enjoyed and we are grateful to the many businesses and citizens who rallied to our support.”

Additionally, Governor Nathan Deal has officially proclaimed the week of Sept. 10 - 16, 2012 as Literacy Week in Georgia.

Deal also named Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012 as Literacy Day in Georgia.