Sponsors needed: Help us turn kids on to math, science

Students filter dirty water at the 2012 STEM Fair at Duke Energy Explorium

Imagine having the power to turn on hundreds of eager 10-year-old minds to future careers in science and math.

Well, you DO have that power. And you can use it simply by helping sponsor the Third Annual STEM Outdoor Learning Laboratories.

This event, hosted by the Catawba River District and the UNC Charlotte Center for STEM Education, gives more than 500 fifth graders a morning of hands-on math and science learning at Duke Energy’s Explorium center beside the McGuire Nuclear Plant.

Volunteers from area businesses, colleges and nonprofit organizations will lead the activities for students at five Gaston and Mecklenburg elementary schools in the Catawba River District.

What will your sponsorship accomplish?

For starters, 70 percent of our students are classified as economically disadvantaged, making STEM focused hands-on learning an important strategy in their education. STEM (science technology engineering and math) skill development is a key component of career readiness.

Hands-On learning opportunities are a proven method of increasing education retention rates and the students love it.   

See the 2012 STEM event video!

We had a great time last year, and you can experience a taste of it yourself with this 3-minute video. There's a feathery surprise ending, so stick with it. 

Sponsorship Benefits Include:

• Recognition on our web, social media and through our media partners
• Your logo on T-shirts given to each student and teacher for the event. We know that students continue to wear these shirts long after the event, meaning your logo will reach thousands of students, parents and others in our community.
• The opportunity, if you wish, to attend the event and to volunteer.

Sponsorship levels

• Platinum: $5,000  • Gold, $2,500  • Silver, $1,000

To learn more, please email Executive Director Edna Chirico or call her at 704-562-8847.