This week’s Rotary of Marion speakers were Brook Thompson and Keith Styles from McDowell High’s GEAR UP Program. GEAR UP stands for “Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs” and is a national college access initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Education. GEAR UP NC provides services, based on need, to students, their families, and educators in target schools. GEAR UP NC’s goal is to significantly increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post secondary education. To learn more about the GEAR UP program, visit

http://www.northcarolina.edu/gearup/index.htm

Written by Rotarian Steve Taylor and obtained from Marion Rotary Club’s Facebook page. For more information on Rotary membership contact 18 year Rotarian Steve Jones.