Q: How do we get the opportunity to work with underserved kids in our community?
A: The best way to stimulate an interest in STEM amongst these kids would be to get in contact with local homeless shelters, foster homes, or domestic abuse homes by using the organization's name and sharing your initiatives and plans. Most places will have you send an email to the volunteer coordinator and will most likely have your chapter/volunteer group submit a background check. You will also need to provide your own transportation to any of these locations. You can also plan events at your local clubhouse, library, or any other public avenue promoting your cause and bring in the children from your community to do your volunteer work.
Q: What are the requirements to submit a story?
A: Our stories feature a child overcoming a certain personal struggle and becoming a superhero through overcoming a STEM related challenge. The books are supposed to be short and engaging (6-8 pages), designed for kids ages 5-11, with their own illustrations. If you have an idea for a story or any pictures, please send an email to stemstarsliteracyfoundation@gmail.com, and we are happy to provide volunteer hours and credit.
Q: How do I join a chapter?
A: By looking at the “Get Involved” page, you will see a non-interactive map of chapter locations and their specific names below. Depending on where you live in the United States or globally, you can reach out to that high school’s officer team or the non-profit. When it comes to the global non-profit chapter, we have built partnerships with international nonprofits that work with children who have separate volunteer groups for students that use our books and activities in their volunteer events. By reaching out to these organizations, you can become affiliated with that organization and begin working on the STEMstars initiatives.
Q: What happens during the volunteer events?
A: The events start off with a brief introduction from all the volunteers and children. We begin by reading some of the children’s books we have made and then asking questions about what the kids think, allowing for questions to be asked and answered. We then move on to the larger part of the lesson by doing our hand-on engaging enrichment activities which vary from science experiments, nature exploration, online simulations, coding worksheets, board games, anatomy dolls, etc. We finish off by asking the kids how they felt and what they learned to bring out the natural curiosity present in them and further stimulating their passion for STEM. From there, we lead a discussion about the different kinds of careers these kids may want to lead, and how we can do anything to support their learning.
Q: Do the fairs, maker spaces, and activities work for all children?
A: Absolutely! The activities pertain to different fields within STEM, and we also work to promote inclusivity for neurodivergent children by incorporating the Infinity Board Game, made to stimulate the learning of special needs children. Our organization’s packages can be catered to all children, and if you're looking to start a chapter and need initial funding and support, we would be happy to send packages if you can email us @stemstarsliteracyfoundation@gmail.com.
Q: Do I need a website for my chapter?
A: Though creating your own website or Instagram page is recommended, you do not need an online presence for your chapter because the official STEMstars Literacy Foundation organization will feature your chapter location or global non-profit affiliation, and the name can help open doors to any volunteering initiatives you may want to engage in.
