Believe in Me’s Support Sparks Growth in Native American Youth
In the heart of Washington, Believe in Me empowers marginalized youth through thoughtful grants, extending support to organizations making a difference. Among our esteemed grantees is the Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County (BGCSC), an organization committed to providing a haven, a sense of community, and growth opportunities. In this blog, we delve into the impactful work of BGCSC, honing in on their transformative Native American Project Learn STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Initiative, fueled by the 2024 grant from Believe in Me.
Believe in Me’s Vision and Mission
Believe in Me envisions a world where all children have the self-confidence they need to succeed. Guided by this vision, the organization’s mission is to fund youth empowerment programs that provide marginalized kids with a safe place to call home, a family that loves them, a feeling of community, and opportunities to learn, build self-esteem, and have fun.
Diversity and Inclusion
A commitment to diversity and inclusion is at the core of Believe in Me’s mission. The organization strives to create a space that radiates warmth, inclusivity, and friendship, where individuals can confidently explore their potential. Regardless of background or circumstances, Believe in Me is dedicated to upholding equal opportunities and creating a nurturing community that celebrates individuality.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County’s Wellpinit Native American Project Learn STEAM Initiative
The Wellpinit Native American Project Learn STEAM Initiative, initiated by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County (BGCSC), addresses the distinct challenges faced by Native American youth in the Wellpinit community. BGCSC independently developed this transformative program, providing a dedicated space for 175 marginalized individuals to overcome obstacles like poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyles, mental health issues, and substance abuse. The initiative spans 39 weeks, offering two hours of daily engagement in Project Learn STEAM activities, supplemented by a 10-week summer program, aiming to bridge educational gaps exacerbated by the pandemic.
This groundbreaking initiative goes beyond traditional education, incorporating hands-on activities such as Snap Circuits, Squish Circuits, Lego Robotics, and Ozobots. Virtual resources like BGCA’s MYFutures curriculum and monthly STEM workforce education sessions enrich the learning experience. Notably, the program responds proactively to pandemic-induced learning challenges, with tutoring sessions and skill-building activities ensuring that participating youth can navigate their academic journeys successfully. Supported by a generous grant from Believe in Me, this initiative is a testament to BGCSC’s commitment to empowering Native American youth and creating lasting positive impacts in the Wellpinit community.
STEAM Enrichment
Recognizing the growing need for STEAM opportunities, BGCSC has incorporated diverse activities into the initiative. From Snap Circuits and Squish Circuits to Lego Robotics and Ozobots, the program ensures that tribal youth are exposed to the wonders of science and technology. Virtual resources such as BGCA’s MYFutures web-based curriculum activities and monthly STEM workforce education and career exploration sessions contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.
Addressing Educational Challenges
The grant awarded by Believe in Me for the Wellpinit Native American Project Learn STEAM Initiative addresses a critical need. With 95% of the school district’s students failing to meet state goals in math and 59% of Native American students having two or more absences per month, there is a pressing need for intervention. Believe in Me, through BGCSC, aims to expose these students to STEAM activities, fostering school engagement and building interest in STEM fields.
Fostering Resilience and Success: The Promise of Collaborative Initiatives
The Wellpinit Native American Project Learn STEAM Initiative is a testament to the impact of collaborative efforts on shaping a brighter future for Native American youth. The 2024 grant awarded to BGCSC by Believe in Me is not just an investment in a program; it’s an investment in the potential and dreams of each young individual served by the organization. As we witness the transformative power of education and empowerment, we are reminded that together, we can build a foundation for success and resilience in the lives of these inspiring young individuals.
Discover the remarkable nonprofits we support on our website: www.believeinme.org/programs. Your time is a valuable asset, and we welcome your involvement, whether through volunteering, sharing this story to amplify their mission, or making thoughtful donations that play a crucial role in sustaining and expanding the positive impact on the lives of children in need. Join us in making a lasting difference!
