Hands-on STEM for the kids who need it most.

Make sure the kids who benefit most actually get to experience STEM.

Robotics programs build confidence, creativity, and problem-solving in ways that traditional classroom instruction often can't — especially for students who learn differently.

But too many children are left out: girls who never see themselves in STEM, neurodivergent learners who thrive with hands-on exploration but don't have access to it, and families who simply can't afford enrichment programs.

RAVE STEM works to change that through scholarships, school partnerships, and community programs that bring Robot Academy's proven approach to the students who need it most.

Built on a 19-year track record — extending it to who's been missing.

Since 2006, Robot Academy has introduced thousands of Columbus-area students to robotics through hands-on camps, afterschool programs, and online instruction. Many graduates have gone on to pursue careers in science and engineering.

But we've also seen who's missing. The students who would benefit most from building a robot, debugging their code, and competing in a BattleBot challenge are often the ones who never get the chance.

The foundation extends Robot Academy's track record into communities and populations we haven't been able to reach through commercial programs alone.

What hands-on robotics builds

• Confidence
• Creativity
• Problem-solving
• Teamwork
• Curiosity about science & tech

For many students, building their first robot becomes a defining learning experience.

We're forming a small founding board.

We're looking for community leaders who believe access to STEM education should not depend on a family's income, a child's gender, or the way they learn.

We're especially interested in board members who bring:

• Connections to schools, community organizations, or family services
• Experience with non-profits, fundraising, or grant writing
• Passion for inclusion — particularly for girls and neurodivergent learners
• A belief that hands-on learning changes lives

Volunteer leadership — practical and manageable.

Board service is designed to fit into a working professional's life. Board members will:

• Attend quarterly board meetings (most on Zoom)
• Provide ideas and guidance as the foundation grows
• Help expand awareness and partnerships in the community
• Offer connections that may help the mission succeed