Through art classes and science experiments, tutoring and homework help, more than 5,400 Clubs engage K-12 students in after-school and summer programming that foster a love of learning. Our programs reinforce what kids and teens are learning at school, while sparking new interests and passions. And every year, one million of these experiences are centered around Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).
Exposing kids to STEM early on is essential. STEM activities ignite children’s natural curiosity, inspiring them to unleash their creativity and enhance problem-solving skills. In addition to building technical skills, Boys & Girls Clubs’ STEM programming develops essential or “soft” skills in young people, such as communicating effectively, collaborating with others and navigating challenges, that are critical for their success after high school graduation.
This fall, as students and families prepare for a new school year, BGCA is moving full steam ahead in providing enriching after-school activities that make STEM interactive and fun. And thanks to our partnership with the Drax Foundation, we’re bringing STEM experiences to more kids in communities that need it most.
Mississippi is one of the lowest ranking states in STEM job growth and education. In the last seven months, Drax’s support has enabled Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi to grow the strength and reach of their STEM programming. Drax also extended their support to three more Mississippi Club locations – Boys & Girls Clubs of Covington County, Southwest Mississippi, and the Golden Triangle – to elevate their STEM resources, staff training and more.
In total, the Drax Foundation’s generous gift of $130,000 in grant support will enable all these organizations to provide STEM experiences to roughly 3,200 Mississippi youth over the next two years.
These five Clubs operate in communities where schools lack certified teachers in STEM subjects, particularly in science and math. Young people in these areas also have limited exposure to tech and robotics learning experiences. Our partnership with the Drax Foundation helps ensure that youth attending these Boys & Girls Clubs in Mississippi CAN envision a future in STEM.
“Our number one goal is to teach kids to be both users and creators of technology to give them sustainable careers and expose them to coding, robotics and what’s possible for life outside of high school,” said Morgan Bogolin, Senior Director of Operations at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast.
Through fun, age-appropriate STEM experiences tailored to their local areas, kids attending these Clubs can explore possibilities within these fields. These opportunities meet kids where they are and feature engaging programs such as advanced virtual reality, robotics, music and video production, graphic design, STEM-based field trips (including Club kids participating in Mississippi State University’s STEAM DAY), and DIY STEM, which is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s signature hands-on, activity-based STEM curriculum for youth ages 9-12.
“At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we are dedicated to providing equitable access to opportunities and experiences that empower youth to become the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow,” said Lisa Anastasi, Executive Vice President and Chief Development & External Relations Officer for Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “That’s why we are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Drax Foundation, which will significantly increase the number of young people participating in high-quality STEM programs at select Mississippi Clubs, equipping our members with the skills they need for a successful future after high school.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of America is grateful for the Drax Foundation’s tremendous support, empowering more youth in Mississippi to pursue STEM interests, skills and careers. Learn more about how Boys & Girls Clubs of America are building great futures for young people nationwide at www.bgca.org.
