The Valley of the Sun YMCA used AzCASE/Cox STEM Grant funding to support the purchase of two Makerspace stations for use in their Yuma YMCA afterschool and summer programs. Makerspace stations are equipped with machines that can be programmed through computer-based design. Funding also expanded their access to Mobile Tech Learning Center learning labs.  The Mobile Tech Learning Centers have created ways for branches to rotate and implement new STEM components more effectively and efficiently, increasing student engagement.  With the help of this grant, they  have created a sustainable STEM learning program that will continue to be shared with communities throughout Arizona. They intend to add makerspaces to each STEM program at YMCA branches throughout the state.

View all of the 2019 STEM Grantees

The National Summer Learning Association (NSLA) seeks applications from youth-serving organizations nationwide for the 2020 Summer Learning Awards sponsored by the New York Life Foundation. This coveted award recognizes exceptional informal or enrollment-based summer programs that keep students safe and healthy, support their academic growth and improve the well-being of our nation's most vulnerable children and youth. Eligible candidates for the Summer Learning Awards must submit their application by December 4, 2019 and demonstrate strong outcomes in promoting healthy youth development during the critical summer months through creative curricula, unique programming and effective family engagement strategies. 

Each award-winning program will receive: 

• a $10,000 donation, generously supported by the New York Life Foundation; 
• national recognition through speaking engagements, NSLA's publications, and media outreach to national and local news outlets as well inclusion in a social media campaign;
• recognition at an awards ceremony at NSLA's national conference Summer Changes Everything™; 
• and an official award seal for use on their website and in program publications. 

A national review panel of education experts will measure all award applicants using the Summer Learning Program Quality Assessment tool, developed in partnership with NSLA and the Weikart Center for Youth Program Quality. 

Learn more & apply