Fonthill Rotary Club’s ongoing dedication to advancing STEM education in the Niagara Region continues as they pledge $1,500 to support the ‘Scientists in School’ program. This generous donation bolsters initiatives aimed at nurturing the curiosity and skills of young minds in science and technology. Photo Supplied
As local communities seek to facilitate careers for young people in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), the Rotary Club of Fonthill is supporting the initiative. On December 7th, it was announced that the club is donating $1,500 to the Niagara Region’s branch of the ‘Scientists in School’ program.
Since 1989, ‘Scientists in School’ has been seeking to provide practical knowledge for students from STEM mentors who have experience in the field. The program, which originated in Durham, has grown to service communities across Ontario, with recent expansion to Alberta taking place, as well.
“Their classroom, community and family workshops open the wonders of science, engineering and technology to everyone, foster environmental stewardship, and encourage children across Canada to discover the relevancy of science in their everyday world,” The Rotary Club shared in a recent press release. “Through our fundraising efforts, the Rotary Club of Fonthill is pleased to provide financial support to community groups located in Pelham or meeting the needs of the residents of Pelham,” it continued. “Formal applications are received through our website and are considered twice annually in October and March.”
“Scientists in School presented to our Club at our first meeting in January 2023,” Fonthill Rotary Club Public Image Chair and Executive Secretary Dave Schulz shared in a recent interview with The Niagara Independent. “Our club invites community organizations to present as guest speakers at our Wednesday morning meetings and provides opportunities (for them to) apply.” Scientists in School submitted their applications and were approved in the March 2023 intake.
For the Fonthill Rotary Club, providing a meaningful support grant to Scientists in School has been a great way to cap off a big year. “We opened the year by sponsoring a Family Day Skate in Support of Food4Kids Niagara,” Schulz said. “We have been pleased to award funding to a number of great community projects,” he continued. “Aside from this twice annual application process, we also were successful in (an application) for a Rotary District grant to support the construction of an amphitheatre at E.L. Crossley Secondary School.” “(There were also) several fundraisers where proceeds were directed specifically to community programs.
“Other milestones include the ribbon cutting for the Pelham Summerfest Rotary Arches in downtown Fonthill (a multi-year fundraising effort) to rebuild the iconic Arches, (and awarding) two scholarships to E.L. Crossley students for post-secondary education.”
Schulz concluded with great anticipation for what 2024 will bring. “We are excited to have been approved by Leadership Niagara to help us review and develop our strategic plan,” he shared. “We plan to engage in this process in the first quarter of 2024, and details will be announced in the New Year.” “We believe this will help us refine our focus moving forward into 2024 and beyond so that we can maximize the positive impact that we have in our community and beyond.”
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
