Partnership with ArcelorMittal brings STEM and robotics opportunities to Chicago youth
/For Immediate Release
Shannon Page
312.913.1700 x451
shannon.page@chicagoyouthcenters.org
Partnership with ArcelorMittal brings STEM and robotics opportunities to Chicago youth
Funding from steel and mining company supports enrichment programs for Chicago Youth Centers children and teens
CHICAGO, June 23, 2017, — Even though Nathaniel is only seven years old, he is already a budding engineer.
He knows how to collaborate with a team, communicate with his peers, and creatively problem solve – all while playing with some pretty cool gadgets. This is possible due to the generosity of companies like ArcelorMittal, a steel and mining company.
ArcelorMittal granted Chicago Youth Centers $15,000 last year to help offer robust and comprehensive STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) curricula to 125 youth at CYC-Rebecca K. Crown Youth Center (CYC-Crown), located in Chicago’s South Shore community. Activities took place in the CYC Maker Lab, a creative and technical workshop where youth use equipment like 3D printers, laser cutters, and vinyl cutters to create projects.
CYC also launched a new robotics program due to ArcelorMittal’s support. Since starting the program, children like Nathaniel have been learning at an early age what it means to be successful in the workplace.
“ArcelorMittal is proud to support Chicago Youth Centers and the Rebecca K. Crown Youth Center Maker Lab. The Maker Lab equips students with new STEM skills and experiences that we believe will inspire them to be the scientists and engineers of tomorrow,” said Marcy Twete, Division Manager, Corporate Responsibility, ArcelorMittal Americas.
CYC found that of the involved youth:
83% demonstrated increased knowledge of STEM subjects
86% demonstrated increased critical thinking skills
81% demonstrated increased communication skills
In addition to ArcelorMittal, Motorola Solutions Foundation, Best Buy, and the FIRST Robotics Competition have supported the robotics program at CYC-Crown. CYC is grateful for ArcelorMittal’s efforts in helping to create a clear vision for students passionate about STEM, contributing to CYC’s mission to be the place where possibility lives.
About Chicago Youth Centers: CYC gives youth ages 3-18 in Chicago’s underserved communities the tools needed to achieve in the 21st century, and helps them persist academically and develop socially and emotionally. CYC serves more than 2,000 children and their families each year at its seven neighborhood Centers and several partner sites. Learn more at www.chicagoyouthcenters.org, on Twitter, or email info@chicagoyouthcenters.org.
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