Tag: community

Helping young minds stay curious

3 April 2025

Opinion

By Melissa Saye, Director, Northeast Louisiana (NELA) Children’s Museum

How a Local Children’s Museum Thrives with Support from Local Businesses 

In communities across the country, children’s museums serve as vibrant, engaging spaces where minds, young and old can explore, create, and learn. Museums often provide invaluable educational opportunities for children and families, offering exhibits and programs that spark curiosity and foster lifelong learning. But for a lot of museums, their success depends heavily on local partnerships – particularly with local businesses. The Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum is no different. Here’s a look at how this NELA landmark is thriving with the support from its local community.  

Building Strong Relationships with Local Businesses 

The NELA Children’s Museum is a nonprofit institution, and like many such organizations, it can face challenges in securing consistent funding. While some rely on government grants, membership fees, or national sponsors, others like the NELA Children’s Museum have cultivated strong, long-term relationships with local businesses to support their operations. Support from local businesses is absolutely vital. These partnerships help us maintain our exhibits, fund educational programs, and keep our doors open to families who might otherwise not be able to experience all that we offer. 

We’ve been fortunate to find support through the Drax Community Fund. Their financial commitment to our museum has allowed us to take our Earth Balloon to rural communities across Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi. The Earth Balloon allows kids to step into our 16-foot globe and learn some cool facts about our continents, oceans, animals and more. For some of these kids, this hands-on learning experience wouldn’t be possible without the support of businesses like Drax.  

Community Impact and Shared Values 

One of the most impactful aspects of these partnerships is the discovery and cultivation of shared values between the museum and our local businesses. We’re both working to enrich the community through family support and educational opportunities. Like Drax, we have a commitment to improving access to STEM education and supporting the creation of opportunities for learning.

This shared vision is the cornerstone of our successful partnership. By working together, we’ve been able to create a positive cycle of mutual support – one where we’re able to help enrich the lives of local families. 

The Power of Community Engagement 

Local businesses aren’t just donors – they’re active partners in the success of our museum. The relationships built between our museum and our business partners strengthen the fabric of the community. As our museum continues to grow, these partnerships will evolve, but one thing remains clear: the local business community’s commitment to our museum’s mission is what allows it to thrive. 

In the end, the collaboration between the NELA Children’s Museum and Drax isn’t just about financial support; it’s about creating a thriving, interconnected community where education, creativity, and growth are nurtured. By working together, we’re making a lasting impact on future generations – one exhibit, event, and donation at a time. 

Get Involved 

If you’d like to learn more about how you can help support the NELA Children’s Museum, visit our website. 

Empowering Mississippi’s Next Generation of STEM leaders

2 April 2025

Opinion

Last month, Drax released its annual report for its Drax Foundation and Community Fund that shows that in 2024, more than $4.5 million was donated to support communities across Drax’s global operations. In the U.S., the Drax Foundation and Community Fund provided more than $896,000 to organizations that help underrepresented groups, advance gender equality, and support STEM learning opportunities. One of those organizations was the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. We’re looking back at how the Drax Foundation helped the BGCA connect kids to STEM learning.

Previously published August 7, 2024

At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, one of our top priorities is ensuring all youth have the tools and support to be successful in school and life. 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.

Taking a Closer Look at the American Bald Eagle

25 February 2025

Opinion

By Marty Floyd, President, Rapides Wildlife Association

Thanks to an exciting new partnership, renewable energy company Drax is providing funding for the Rapides Wildlife Association’s nature camera project through the Drax Foundation. The project is aimed at documenting and preserving the iconic American Bald Eagle. The Drax Foundation has committed $4,000 towards the purchase of solar batteries for the nature camera. This innovative initiative combines cutting-edge technology with environmental stewardship, offering a unique opportunity to monitor and safeguard one of North America’s most majestic and revered species. 

The Work to Preserve Nature 

The Rapides Wildlife Association is a non-profit organization established by like-minded volunteers in the mid-1960s from all walks of life who are dedicated to public education about wildlife, using wildlife management practices, and protecting wildlife habitats in central Louisiana. The organization was established to be a resource for people who want to volunteer their time, talents, and effort to maintaining wildlife. The group works with other non-profit organizations, as well as state and federal agencies to protect wildlife habitats and implement wildlife management programs. These important collaborations ensure that the Rapides Wildlife Association continues to achieve its important goals. 

Why the Bald Eagle 

The Bald Eagle, once on the brink of extinction due to hunting and habitat destruction, has made a remarkable recovery over the last few decades. With protections in place, their populations have rebounded, though they still face threats from environmental pollution, climate change, and loss of habitat. The eagle, as the national bird and symbol of freedom, holds a special place in American culture and environmental conservation. 

The camera, strategically placed in a known eagle nesting site, provides real-time footage of eagle families as they nest, and raise their young. These images and videos not only give scientists and conservationists detailed data on the species’ life cycle, they also raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats for wildlife. 

By monitoring their nesting habits, hunting behaviors, and migration patterns through the nature camera, scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the species’ needs and identify potential threats. This knowledge is crucial for formulating conservation strategies that ensure the continued survival of the American Bald Eagle and other wildlife species that share their habitat. 

Real-Time Impact and Public Engagement 

The nature camera is more than just a research tool. It also serves as a powerful educational resource, bringing real-time wildlife footage to a global audience. The camera feed is available to the public via a live stream, allowing eagle enthusiasts, students, and conservationists to witness the incredible journey of these majestic creatures firsthand. 

A Step Toward a Sustainable Future 

This collaboration between bioenergy and conservation represents a model for how industries can contribute to the protection of biodiversity while continuing to meet the world’s energy needs. Drax’s commitment to this project highlights the growing trend of responsible corporate involvement in environmental issues. As the world increasingly looks to sustainable solutions for both energy and conservation, initiatives like this offer hope for a future where both wildlife and humanity can thrive. 

Nature Positive 

The American Bald Eagle’s comeback is a story of hope and perseverance, and thanks to the generosity and foresight of Drax, the journey of these incredible birds will be documented, celebrated, and protected. As the camera rolls and captures the daily life of these majestic creatures, we are reminded of the deep connections between the energy we consume, the ecosystems we inhabit, and the wildlife we share the Earth with. This project is a testament to the belief that sustainability is not just about energy, it’s about preserving the very essence of nature for future generations. 

Get Involved 

If you’d like to learn more about volunteer opportunities with the Rapides Wildlife Association, visit www.rapideswildlifeassociation.org. 

 

 

 

Bringing Health and Wellness to a Small Town Community: The Gift of a Walking Track

17 January 2025

Opinion

By Crystal Murray, Gloster Community Liaison and Office Administrator 

If you call Gloster, Mississippi home, then you’ve no doubt noticed some activity next to the National Guard Armory building on North Captain Gloster Drive. Currently, the town is in the process of installing a brand-new community walking track thanks to a donation from Drax.   

In rural communities like Gloster, access to recreational spaces can be limited. Often, the nearest gym or park is miles away, making it difficult for residents to engage in physical activities or maintain a healthy lifestyle. As Drax’s Gloster Community Liaison, I am proud to be a part of the team that worked with town leaders to make the dream of a community walking track a reality.  

A Generous Donation  

The installation of the walking track was made possible thanks to the Drax Community Fund. $130,000 was earmarked for this project. The funds were donated to the Town of Gloster; that’s when Mayor Jerry Norwood set out to find the perfect construction crew to undertake this project. As a Gloster native, I can attest to the desire for a safe, accessible, and well-maintained space for exercise.   

Construction began in late 2024 and we’re excited about a formal groundbreaking in the coming months. While the donation was instrumental in getting the project off the ground, the community and town support we’ve received has brought the walking track to life. It’s been great to see the dollars for the track go to local businesses; a special thanks goes out to Owen Holland and Sons.   

Enhancing Health and Wellness  

The new walking track offers many benefits to the community. It provides a safe, well-lit space for outdoor exercise, which is particularly important in rural areas where sidewalks and public parks may not be easily accessible. Regular walking is a proven way to improve cardiovascular health, manage weight, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. The walking track also encourages social interaction and is a great place for parents to get some exercise while keeping an eye on their children as they play.  

Looking Ahead  

The donation of the walking track is more than just a place to exercise – it’s a source of community pride. More than that, it’s another way Drax is investing in its connection to the community. We have been hard at work determining the best way to support the communities where we operate. Here in Gloster, we have our Community Advisory Panel where we meet to discuss the community’s needs and how we can help meet them.

You can learn more about what we’re doing here in Gloster and the surrounding communities by visiting www.drax.com/gloster.