tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:/bg/projects?page=6 2024-10-23T02:25:25Z tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/290052 2024-09-24T00:00:00Z 2024-10-23T02:25:25Z Artists Off the Page, a collective of illustration-based artists, is planning an immersive art experience in a vacant storefront in the Lloyd Center Mall. We are excited to contribute to the community of artists & creative programming already taking advantage of the Lloyd Center space, & our goal is to draw audiences into an imaginative Winter Wonderland-themed world, with the theme being interpreted by each artist in their own way. The unifying element will be the forest (celebrating the PNW), & viewers will walk through the trees along an open path, passing by collaborative 2D & 3D artworks that climb up the tree trunks. The experience will feel like a story that viewers can discover at their own pace. At the end of your journey, you'll emerge into a small gift shop filled with local artists’ work for sale. The experience will be free & gift shop sales will go directly to individual artists. The installation will be open 4-5 days a week with participating artists rotating shifts. This immersive experience will be appropriate for all ages, & will offer a fun & free holiday activity for families & groups as well as a shop for holiday gift-buying. We plan to take advantage of the creative community already active in the Lloyd Center (Floating World Comics, Bookmobile Babe, & many more) for cross-promotion & outreach to draw the widest audience possible. Creative workshops & book readings led by participating artists will also be a draw for folks in the community. We also plan to place ads with local newspapers, as well as distribute printed flyers & posters. Lastly, we plan to reach out to local schools & youth programs around the Portland metro area to offer our space as a field trip destination. As a group, Artists Off the Page has been working towards a large-scale immersive experience like this for nearly 4 years, & we’re excited for this to be the next step in our collaborative output. Erika Schnatz A Walk through Winter Wonderland https://www.instagram.com/artistsoffthepage/ United States Portland, OR https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/portland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/291034 2024-09-19T00:00:00Z 2024-09-24T19:16:01Z We have had the great privilege of having the Awesome Foundation support our initial social enterprise at our CommUnity Cafe. We are back to ask once more to help us build our Sip-portive Cafe, a new paid employment opportunity for the graduates of our CommUnity Cafe food service program. As the members of Awesome Kingston may remember, Bloom Skills Centre is a non-profit charity that supports young adults with intellectual and developmental exceptionalities develop skills for employment and we help them find work in the community. Our CommUnity Cafe is our food service and food skill program. Each session we have students transition to independent work be we always have a few that still need support. This new venture, at the VIA rail station, will be an opportunity for those students to have paid employment, with support on hand. That way their skills are recognized but their needs are met. Amber Potter Sip-Portive Cafe http://bloomskillscentre.com Canada Kingston https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/kingston-on tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/275525 2024-09-18T00:00:00Z 2024-09-18T14:06:33Z We're so excited to announce that our August grant was awarded to Punks Take Bluestockings: Punks of Color Incubator, a monthly all ages showcase of BIPOC punk. _Born after listening to youth organizers in the scene [@punksofcolor_](https://www.instagram.com/punksofcolor_) (together with [@themeetinghouseshows](https://www.instagram.com/themeetinghouseshows)) challenge the community to create more all ages shows celebrating BIPOC performers, every month this queer trans feminist bookstore pushes the tables out of the way and puts on a night of raucous Black, Poc, queer and femme punk music._ _A grant from the Awesome Foundation will go towards a drum kit, amp, and other sound equipment. Owning and transporting this equipment is a common obstacle for up-and-coming performers. By removing this barrier, performers from under-represented and marginalized communities will have access to professional-grade, quality equipment for their performances at Bluestockings._ _Punk, like all rock music, is actually a genre pioneered by black and female artists, who have largely been pushed out of theor own scene. Owning our own equipment means we will not be constrained by the high cost of rental fees, allowing us to do consistent monthly shows. It also means we will not be constrained to booking bands wealthy enough to own their own gear. In a part of the city that is rapidly gentrifying we believe that creating and holding space for marginalized artists will absolutely make our community more awesome._ Punks Take Bluestockings happens on the last Sunday every month at Bluestockings Cooperative Bookstore in the Lower East Side. Shows are $10 NOTAFLOF and curated by [@natebklynwolf](https://www.instagram.com/natebklynwolf/_ of the legendary bands Maafa and Winter Wolf. Bluestockings has been a mainstay of the LES community for over 25 years and we could not be more excited to support this initiative. Merlin Sabam Punks Take Bluestockings: Punks of Color Incubator https://www.bluestockings.com/ United States New York City, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/nyc tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/262939 2024-09-18T00:00:00Z 2024-09-19T04:34:08Z Nesian Markets is a makers market focused on small businesses and local artists/artisans that sell Pacific Islander goods and services/food. There are many Lake Macquarie locals with Pacific Islander roots who love to sell their merchandise but aren't as successful at a normal market because their small businesses are more appealing to other Pacific Islanders. Nesian Market welcomes all and invites the whole community to participate in a market day focused on Pacific Island culture. It would be an awesome project because it is another event that brings the whole community together to enjoy Pacific Islander food, music, entertainment and more! Esther Loli-Fiu Nesian Markets Australia Lake Mac https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/lakemac tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/284721 2024-09-18T00:00:00Z 2024-10-14T14:08:40Z Our project focuses on creating assistive technology for the visually impaired. With Florida being #1 in visual impairments per capita, it is the perfect place to make this impact. The visually impaired have been left behind in terms of today's technology, and therefore, feel left out and dependent. The few options of assistive technology out today are expensive (multiple thousands of dollars) and do not meet the needs of the community by promoting safety. Our project changes this. We are 2 students from the Engineering School of Florida International University, Mike Romano and Gabriel Habech, and we set out to solve this global problem inspired by a lifelong, blind friend. Our tech has granted our friend the independence he desires, and has the capability to make the same impact around the world. Our friend was even able to play soccer with his family, despite being fully blind! Our device is simple and user friendly, you strap it on your head, it does the seeing for you, and if there is an object near you it lets you know through vibrations. This revolutionary real time feedback has the potential to change lives around the globe, and we are hoping the Awesome Foundation helps us cause global change! Mike Romano BeyondSight http://www.thebeyondsight.com United States Miami, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/miami tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/294987 2024-09-18T00:00:00Z 2025-03-13T16:32:24Z Decades before charities had “Giving Tuesday,” and long before anyone ever thought of “Centre Gives,” there was The Alternative Christmas Fair. A beloved Centre County tradition since 1982, the ACF is a way for people to give to more than 30 charities each December and participate in the true spirit of the holiday season.This year, the ACF will pass the million-dollar mark in total donations to charity since its inception. (We’re at $992,078 right now). We think that qualifies as awesome. Our tangible thing is the event itself. It’s a community-building gathering, a celebration of the wonderful services available in Centre County, an opportunity for the charities themselves to connect with other groups doing related work, one-stop holiday gift shopping for everyone on your list, and a delicious meal too. University Baptist and Brethren Church (UBBC) administers the ACF. On Sunday, Dec 8, approximately 30 charities will set up booths in Fellowship Hall and the Fireside Room at UBBC, 411 S. Burrowes St, State College. Between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. that day, people from the congregation and from the community at large will come to the Fair. They will browse the booths, talk with the representatives of the charities, and on a single sheet of paper indicate which ones they want to support and how much they want to give to each. Then they head to the check-out line and pay. UBBC furnishes each donor with attractive cards and envelopes so that they can give them to friends and loved ones informing them that a Christmas donation has been made in their name to a particular charity. While UBBC collects the money, it keeps none of it. Every penny of the charitable donations goes to the non-profits who participate. From the beginning, the ACF has sought support from the local community. Many people who have no connection with UBBC come to the Fair each year. And each year we work to broaden that community link. The charities that the ACF serves are detailed on the ACF website. Richard W Jones The Alternative Christmas Fair https://www.ubbcwelcome.org/acf-charities United States State College, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/statecollege tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/281367 2024-09-17T00:00:00Z 2024-09-18T00:22:06Z Our project is a future Cape Ann Pride Coalition Youth Division Halloween event for queer youth and their allies. It will include: food and drinks, raffle prizes, and spooky Halloween movies at Cape Ann Cinema! It will be (tenatively) October 18th from 6-9 P.M. Savannah Hopkins Cape Ann Pride Coalition https://www.capeannpride.org United States Rockport, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/rockport tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/290995 2024-09-17T00:00:00Z 2024-09-18T23:21:27Z Our goal is to inspire and educate our students and whole school community to reduce food waste by composting and making healthy soil for our school garden. I teach every child from kindergarten to fifth grade. We learn how to plant and care for seeds and make healthy snacks and meals from what is harvested in our garden. This thorough and comprehensive program from Aina in Schools teaches agriculture, composting and nutrition. At every cafeteria meal, we see a lot of food thrown in the trash and wasted. In our third grade curriculum, students learn that this food waste can be transformed into nutritious soil instead of waste that produces methane and leachate. We teach the students three types of composting (aerobic, vermicomposting, bokashi). I teamed up with a fellow teacher who is passionate about bokashi composting. In bokashi composting, meat, fruits, vegetables, starches and even bones can be composted. So, the school meals except for the milk can be completely composted with bokashi. My students and I make the bokashi that mixes in with the food waste in an aerobic bucket. My partner teacher and students collect the food waste and bury the bokashi. Over time, this food waste decomposes and we transfer it to our garden beds. The students get to see the full circle of composting and gardening. We would like to compost throughout the year. The students absolutely. love making the bokashi and burying the food waste. They also love to plant the seeds in the beds that are newly nourished with the compost. Margaret Shimizu Composting School Meals United States Oahu, HI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/oahu tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/288913 2024-09-17T00:00:00Z 2024-09-18T23:24:33Z This NEW project is designed to help third-grade students explore the reasons why people settled in Hawai’i during plantation times and how the cultural practices of immigrants have shaped the communities over time. By combining historical research, creative thinking, and technology, students will create innovative presentations that demonstrate the cultural evolution in Hawai’i. Phase 1: Introduction and Suitcase Assignment Students will begin by learning about the different immigrant groups that came to Hawai’i during plantation times, such as those from China, Puerto Rico, Japan, and more. Each student will choose an immigrant group and receive a “suitcase assignment.” They will pretend to be an immigrant coming to Hawai’i and decide what items they would bring with them to remind them of their culture. Students will use iPads or other devices to create digital representations of their suitcases, including images, descriptions, and explanations of the significance of each item. Phase 2: Research and Analysis Students will research the reasons why their chosen immigrant group decided to settle in Hawai’i, including economic, social, and environmental factors. They will also study how the cultural practices of these immigrants influenced the Hawaiian community over time. Using technology, students will document their research, taking pictures, videos, and creating digital notes. Phase 3: Cultural Evolution Over Time Students will explore how the cultural practices brought by immigrants have evolved and what elements are still visible in Hawai’i today. They will analyze the changes in cultural practices and traditions, comparing the past with the present. Phase 4: Final Project and Presentation Diorama Option: Create a diorama that shows the cultural evolution in Hawai’i over time, using technology to enhance their presentation. Modern Suitcase Option: Create a new digital suitcase that represents Hawai’i today, filled with items that reflect cultural blending. Morgan Tursi Project Proposal: Cultural Evolution of Settlers i United States Oahu, HI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/oahu tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/293537 2024-09-16T00:00:00Z 2024-09-17T11:18:03Z The "Lane Mural on Harbor Loop" aims to bring a piece of the city's rich artistic heritage to life on a grand, public scale. The mural will be a faithful reproduction of an iconic Fitz Henry Lane painting depicting Gloucester Harbor. It's set to adorn the old Empire Fish building at 11 Harbor Loop, directly across from the Fitz Henry Lane statue. This strategic location creates a meta-themed installation, as the mural will represent what Lane's statue appears to be painting. Salvatore Zerilli The Lane Mural on Harbor Loop United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/288981 2024-09-16T00:00:00Z 2024-11-19T19:23:39Z The mission of the Pittsburgh Derby Brats is to nurture bold self-confidence in youth by developing teamwork and athletic ability while treasuring individuality within a culture of integration, encouragement, and service to others, all through the practice, play and promotion of Roller Derby. We keep roller derby accessible to any girl, boy, or gender-expansive athlete who aspires to strap on skates as they discover how strong they can be individually, as part of a team, and as a member of a diverse, inclusive, and dynamic community. Offering Roller Derby to Pittsburgh youth gives a unique opportunity to play a sport that is not offered through school districts or local municipalities. Kids meet new friends and build many life skills when playing roller derby. The community is supportive and positive and enhances the lives of all involved! We offer an open gender sport for youth ages 9-18 in the Pittsburgh area and are the only Junior Roller Derby team in western PA. Jessica Halsband Junior Roller Derby Western PA https://www.pittsburghderbybrats.net/ United States Pittsburgh, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/pittsburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/289270 2024-09-15T00:00:00Z 2024-09-16T03:44:55Z This project will provide a family-friendly cultural area in events where Filipino American History can be shared, starting on Oct 12, 2024 at the Filipino American History Month (FAHM) Festival in my hometown of Watsonville, California. The project will provide art materials, books, and creative opportunities for families and children to play and learn about rich Filipino history, and to honor historical Filipino contributions to the local community. This will become a stepping stone for reinforcing the Filipino cultural presence in Watsonville, providing opportunities for the entire community to celebrate and preserve Filipino roots and heritage. Melanie Maravilla Filipino American History United States Santa Cruz, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/santacruz tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/261768 2024-09-15T00:00:00Z 2024-10-10T18:13:14Z Nov 16, 2024 will be the 30th anniversary of the Pangea-Cultivate Our Cultures Festival held at the Hjemkomst Center. This free family-friendly showcase of our community's cultural diversity includes performances by various culture groups such as Buffalo River Drum and Singers and Heather and Thistle Pipe and Drums, food from ten different cultures for sale, and booths of organizations from a variety of cultures. Last year 1200 people attended. We want to keep it free to be as accessible as possible to the greatest number. The event shares the best in all the cultures that make up our community. Maureen Kelly Jonason Pangea-Cultivate Our Cultures Festival https://www.hcscconline.org/pangea2023.html United States Cass Clay https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/cassclay tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/285820 2024-09-13T00:00:00Z 2024-09-13T15:08:38Z New Leash on Life USA is an innovative reentry and diversion organization in the greater Philadelphia region that facilitates fresh starts for justice-impacted individuals and at-risk dogs. Leveraging the power of the human-animal bond, our programs are based on animal-assisted therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed practices. We work with local shelters, including ACCT Philly, to rescue the dogs at highest risk of euthanasia because of medical challenges, minor behavioral issues, breed prejudice, and overcrowding. Our rescue dogs have often experienced abandonment, abuse, neglect, and trauma – and our justice-impacted participants can often relate to that from their own life experiences. Participants have the opportunity to not only create a therapeutic relationship with a dog but also have the confidence-building experience of saving and training a dog who would have been euthanized. After completing our program, these dogs are adopted into forever loving homes in the community. Our programs not only rescue at-risk dogs but also deliver intensive, individualized services to the justice-impacted participants. Workshops include life skills, career readiness, financial literacy, basic animal care, and dog training. We also provide graduates with paid internships in the community, public transportation passes, individual weekly meetings, support in securing permanent employment, and referrals to other resources as needed, such as substance use treatment. Our SVP of Programs, Rob Rosa, CRS, is an individual with lived experience and leads our team in creating a high level of trust and rapport with our participants. Jane Bridwell Dog supplies for prison / dog rescue programs http://newleashonlife.org United States Philadelphia, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/philadelphia tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/265517 2024-09-12T00:00:00Z 2024-11-04T21:13:24Z AwesomeStPaul is proud to announce our September 2024 grant recipient Growing Amazing Readers and Writers. Teacher Holly Johnston describes the project. “My students made amazing growth in reading and writing using the power of the Science of Reading this past year. By using the UFLI Foundation's explicit and systematic phonics program developed by the University of Florida, I taught my students how to use letter sounds to learn to blend and segment words, and become fantastic readers and writers. I found that I am limited in my attempts to teach reading completely because I lack some of the most important resources for helping students apply what they have learned in the phonics program to practice reading at different levels using decodable books. I purchased some of the lowest level Bob Books off of the Amazon website using my own money to give my students practice reading. I would love to offer them even more challenging books as they become more fluent readers. I would love to purchase higher level Bob Books with this money in order to help them become even more proficient in reading. I use small groups to practice teaching reading using the Bob Books, and this is why I would need 6 books of each title (me and 5 students in a group). I have found that by growing in their reading, students were also growing in their writing ability. The sight word books would help them gain even more proficiency in writing as they learn more sight words to use in writing.” Holly Johnston Growing Amazing Readers and Writers United States St. Paul, MN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/stpaul tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/285613 2024-09-11T00:00:00Z 2024-09-12T13:25:23Z The Trash Talk Tour is an annual event in Ann Arbor that celebrates zero waste and the circular economy while educating and inspiring the community. This free, family-friendly event allows people to see what happens to trash, recyclables, and compost after you throw them “away” through tours of Ann Arbor’s recycling and compost facilities. This is a first step towards putting on “trash goggles” for many members of our community: once we realize exactly what happens to everything we throw out, we understand why it is so important to reduce our waste. The bike tour portion of the event offers the chance to explore Ann Arbor’s circular economy at locations around town like By the Pound, Maker Works and Common Cycle. The bike tour also includes behind-the-scenes tours of the Stadium and Recycle Ann Arbor, which are always fan favorites. In previous follow-up surveys, participants have exclaimed at the quantity of waste produced by the stadium—helping them to realize the importance of Michigan Stadium’s 90% landfill diversion goal—and loved asking questions to the knowledgeable employees of the Recycle Ann Arbor Materials Recovery Facility. The day ends with a Zero Waste Fall Festival at Kiwanis Thrift Sale featuring live music, ugly pumping carving, donuts, cider, goats, screen printing, a zero waste scavenger hunt, games and more! This is the only Sunday of the year where Kiwanis Thrift Safe is open to the public for donations and shopping, and attendees get the chance to take an exclusive tour of Kiwanis’ operations that save thousands of items from the landfill each year. Trash Talk Tour participants will learn more about Ann Arbor's circular economy through local businesses and organizations who are committed to reducing waste. Through educating about personal actions and promoting sustainable businesses, we are working to shift the culture around single-use consumption and waste in Ann Arbor in a way that will have lasting impacts in the community. Samuel McMullen ZeroWaste.Org Trash Talk Tour 2024 https://zerowaste.org/ United States Ann Arbor, MI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/ann-arbor tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/286968 2024-09-11T00:00:00Z 2024-09-15T18:50:21Z I, along with two other Ipswich educators, have been advocating for play in the lives of children. Our group, Play is the Way, has hosted many events to get children outside to play and have also coordinated with the Ipswich recreation department to bring play to many of the Ipswich events. Our idea would be to order (from a local company) a mud kitchen to be installed at Bialek park. We would ideally like to purchase a mud kitchen, an outside table and log stump stools to go with it. Julie Doyle Mud kitchens United States Ipswich, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/ipswich tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/288286 2024-09-11T00:00:00Z 2024-09-16T23:03:22Z I want to revive our ceramics studio and transform our garden with eco-friendly olla irrigation—sustainable innovation for a self-sufficient community near Death Valley. Olla pots are traditional, porous clay pots that are an effective way to conserve water by slowly releasing moisture directly to plant roots. This avoids the pitfalls of drip irrigation: evaporation from the surface. This initiative aligns with my sustainability goals for the studio and it is also just a dope alternative farming technique. These ollas would help grow the vegetables that feed the students that gives them more energy to harvest more clay to make more ceramics! Totally circular economy. There's a start up called Thirsty Earth that makes olla cup irrigation systems for small backyard gardens upwards of $200. I would expand the food sovereignty experiment we have going at the college to include an irrigation system that could be viable for a larger community. I want to figure out how to make a system that is self-contained, in that all the materials come from ourselves, and that could feasibly be re-created in other parts of the world. I have enough experience to be able to teach others how to make and fire olla pots and create a sort of lineage of this unique irrigation technique at the college. So my awesome project is dual purpose— community engagement in ceramic art, and sustainable agriculture. There’s already a gas kiln on campus, and I recently walked 7 miles out to a dried up lake bed in the valley and discovered a large deposit of clay (a veritable gold mine). Ada King Homegrown Ceramics United States San Francisco, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/sf tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/285863 2024-09-11T00:00:00Z 2024-10-07T15:55:26Z Imagine a giant, interactive maze made entirely of chalk in the heart of the community. Each section of the maze represents a different emotion or state of mind—calmness, joy, creativity, mindfulness, and more. As participants walk through the maze, they encounter playful prompts, drawing stations, and mindfulness activities designed to encourage reflection, creativity, and spontaneous connections with others. How It Addresses Urgent or Absurd Issues: In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, people are losing touch with the simple joy of real-life connection and creativity. The Mindful Maze addresses the urgent issue of social disconnection in an absurdly playful way, encouraging people to slow down, engage with their surroundings, and connect with others through the shared experience of creativity. Leveraging Playfulness and Community Cohesion: The maze is a communal canvas where participants of all ages can contribute their own drawings, doodles, or positive messages. It's a living, evolving artwork that grows more vibrant with each person who walks through it. This shared experience fosters a sense of belonging and community cohesion, all while being delightfully playful and lighthearted. Unpredictable Plans: The Mindful Maze is designed to be an experiment in spontaneity. The exact design of the maze will change daily, with new prompts and activities added based on the previous day’s interactions. This ever-evolving nature ensures that no two visits are the same, keeping the experience fresh and unpredictable. Interactive with the Public: Located in a busy public space, the Mindful Maze invites everyone—from passersby to dedicated participants—to join in the fun. The interactive nature of the maze encourages strangers to engage with one another, whether through a shared laugh at a playful prompt or a deep conversation sparked by a thought-provoking activity. Jerreece Ann Jackson The Mindful Maze: A Playful Path to Community Conn United States San Francisco, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/sf tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/261192 2024-09-11T00:00:00Z 2024-11-12T17:40:52Z Storytellers will be a meaningful, live Christmas event that explores the stories of some of the most famous Christmas songs with compelling storytelling, dynamic multimedia, phenomenal music, and exceptional hyper-local Carroll County talent. 100% of ticket sales will benefit multiple local charities. My hope is Storytellers will be: Inspirational - We'll capitalize on the warm nostalgia of the season and lift spirits. Informational - We'll tell the real stores behind the songs. Transformational - Perhaps a lofty goal, but I think it is an opportunity to connect people with a version of the Christmas story sparks change. Steve Lowe Storytellers United States Westminster, MD https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/westminster tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/290222 2024-09-10T00:00:00Z 2024-10-23T21:41:25Z The Cat Lady Cafe has been awesome since we opened on March 28, 2023 and has since adopted 129 cats into their fur-ever homes! We are part cat rescue and part coffee shop and provide a relaxing environment for our cats and guests. Cats are from the Humane Society of St. Joseph County and live here until they are adopted. Guests pay $11/hour to visit with the cats. Some come with the intention of adopting and others come to just relax and visit with the cats. We've seen visitors of all ages gasp when they enter the room, at the sight of the cats roaming around. It's instant happiness! Many describe it as "therapeutic." Cat cafes are not unique-they are all over the world! But The Cat Lady Cafe is my version for South Bend. I’ve been a volunteer and board member for the Humane Society of St. Joseph County for nearly 20 years, so animal rescue has been my passion for two decades. I visited a cat café in London in 2017 and decided that South Bend needed one, I completed the SPARK Program through the Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative at Saint Mary's College in the fall of 2020, which provided a solid business plan and gave me valuable community connections. Since opening our doors last year, we've not only adopted over 120 cats, but we've also been a bright spot in our guests' day. We've celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, engagements and graduations. We've had visitors from the local area and the region, as well as many visitors who are in South Bend as part of their travels. We currently partner with ADEC to provide employment assessments for their clients, offer complimentary visits for guests of the Ronald McDonald House of Michiana and host special events with local businesses like The Pigeon and The Hen Pottery. Even though we are all about cats... we are truly more than just cats and can't wait to share with you the impact we have made and continue to make in the community! Kim Sult The Cat Lady Cafe http://www.catladycafesouthbend.com United States South Bend, IN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/southbend tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/283353 2024-09-10T00:00:00Z 2024-10-23T21:43:53Z This awesome project will do more than show a movie. Join Up! South Bend will show South Benders how to join more clubs, and why it matters. A community like South Bend is only as strong as the connections people make within it. But there’s something unfortunate happening all over America. We’ve stopped joining. For decades, membership has declined in Rotary clubs, congregations, even bowling leagues. In 2000, Robert Putnam’s book "Bowling Alone" detailed this decline in community connections and its startling link to the fate of American democracy. The groundbreaking book is now required reading at universities nationwide. These important insights should be made accessible to South Benders. How? Good news: the book is now a documentary. "Join or Die" is a film about why you should join a club – and why the fate of America may depend on it. The film is not available in local theaters or online. Rather, the filmmakers invite communities to host screenings of their own. We want to do that, and take the connection-building to the next level. With help from the Awesome Fund, Join Up! South Bend will do three things: First, we want to host a free screening of "Join or Die" on the afternoon of Sunday, October 13, 2024 at the Main Library’s Community Learning Center auditorium, with a talkback discussion to follow. Second, we want to connect people to clubs. Once the movie concludes, a free, open house-style club fair begins. We will fill the Library’s ballrooms with more than 30 tables of local clubs, associations, and organizations so South Benders can find out what they do, and which ones they might like to join. Third, we want the joining to happen all year round. The club fair would also be launch day for the JoinUpSouthBend.org website, an online directory of every club, association, or organization in South Bend whose membership structure fosters social capital-building connections, and who would like to submit a free listing. Scott Palmer Join Up! South Bend https://www.joinordiefilm.com/ United States South Bend, IN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/southbend tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/282708 2024-09-10T00:00:00Z 2024-10-23T21:44:24Z Hello! My name is Sharon Sims and I am the founder and director of Dance Society Social Club in South Bend. Dance Society is a Social Club designed for communal play. From classes to dance socials, we are on a mission to get out of our heads and into our bodies. Whether that’s trying your hand at choreography or lip syncing into a hair brush, we exist to help all people take social and physical risks through dance. Our community leaves our world a little less alone, and a lot more unabashed. DSSC is in need of funding for our new studio space in the Monroe St. Art Studios (Studio 13). We are so excited to have our own space to house all of our fun - but the studio needs some TLC! Sharon Sims Dance Society Social Club https://dancesocietysocialclub.com United States South Bend, IN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/southbend tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/264596 2024-09-09T00:00:00Z 2024-09-10T12:55:36Z Turning Wheels is a program that focuses on health and wellness through the art of roller skating. The program provides dance, visual art, and health instructors to teach various dance and art techniques and the importance of exercise and a healthy lifestyle. Our instructors infuse dance techniques with fundamental skating to create a unique roller skating style. Integrating dance advances the youth's skill level and gives them confidence in their physical abilities. Our instructors also work with the youth by helping them design creative and colorful helmets and skate covers. The visual art sector of the program allows the youth to show self-expression and showcase their uniqueness and the end of our programs with family and friends. The Rollinbuckeyez Foundation educates youth and community families on how physical exercise helps reduce illnesses associated with heart disease and obesity. Kenneth Perdue Turning Wheels http://www.rollinbuckeyezfoundation.org United States Cleveland, OH https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/cleveland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/289253 2024-09-09T00:00:00Z 2024-09-10T12:56:12Z The Puentes del Pasado program aims to partner with Latinx community organizations in the Brooklyn Centre and Clark-Fulton neighborhoods of Cleveland, Ohio, to educate youth on the history of Bomba and Kokobale. This program will serve as a leadership initiative where students will embody cultural knowledge while learning leadership through traditional Puerto Rican dance. It will conclude with a celebration and cultural exhibition open to the community, where students will dance alongside live musicians in a Hispanic Heritage Month performance, showcasing their experiences in the program. Throughout the grant period, our collective will create a documentary-style photo and video archive of individuals in Puerto Rico and Cleveland, focusing on the exchange between the diaspora and the island. These individuals include historians, musicians, dance educators, and the youth participating in the program. In addition, students will document their experiences photographically, creating a student archive. We hope to display our collective archive and showcase our film to further honor our foundation and continue our heritage’s legacy. Lex Cuevas Puentes del Pasado United States Cleveland, OH https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/cleveland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/269412 2024-09-09T00:00:00Z 2024-09-10T12:56:48Z Hand 2 Hand Inc. (H2H) project implements special event every year called "Tree of Life" This event is a memorial tree dedication and celebration of life for families that have lost a loved one due to drug overdose or gun violence. We obtain a tree for every family (up to 15 families each year. to provide healing and wellness for the loved ones left behind. We offer tree planting ceremonies and supportive events with resources from our community partnerships. Each family is supported by an OSU Extensions Master Gardener that will help with the tree plantings. All families attending the celebration of life event will receive flowers and a keepsake necklace. They will place a leaf from their tree inside as a way to carry their beloved one memory with them everyday. Our goal is to create awareness and give these families a opportunity to build relationship with other families that are dealing with the grief of losing a loved one on our cities streets due to drug overdose and gun violence. Veronica Robinson The Tree of LIfe https://hand2handinc.wixsite.com/1833h2hohio United States Cleveland, OH https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/cleveland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/290297 2024-09-09T00:00:00Z 2024-09-10T22:42:34Z Step into the world of Art on the Edge: 7 Deadly Sins, a groundbreaking and immersive art series at College Park Gallery. Each month, we delve into one of the seven deadly sins—Pride, Greed, Gluttony, Lust, Envy, Wrath, and Sloth—through a captivating blend of dance, live art, body painting, spoken word, and more. Larissa Humiston Art on the Edge https://www.emotionsdance.org/artontheedge United States Orlando, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/orlando tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/333568 2024-09-09T00:00:00Z 2025-03-05T09:55:31Z "O Projeto Sumar faz parte da Enactus UFMG e o seu principal objetivo é promover a educação ambiental e a implementação de práticas sustentáveis na comunidade da Vila Sumaré, em Belo Horizonte. O projeto visa fortalecer a integração da comunidade com iniciativas de economia circular, melhorando o descarte de resíduos e conscientizando os moradores sobre a importância da sustentabilidade. Dessa forma, busca-se contribuir para a redução das desigualdades sociais e econômicas, bem como para o desenvolvimento de soluções que alinhem os aspectos socioeconômicos e ambientais da comunidade. De modo geral, o projeto é dividido em quatro etapas: Insights, Ideação, Prototipação e a Ignição. Atividades Realizadas (Etapas da Metodologia Enactus): Insights: Prospecção: Definição do tema central do projeto pela equipe, com foco em práticas sustentáveis e economia circular para a comunidade da Vila Sumaré. Empatia: Interação com a comunidade, identificando as necessidades e desafios locais, como a falta de infraestrutura adequada para descarte de resíduos e entulho. Ideação: Desenvolvimento de ideias para solucionar o problema do descarte incorreto de resíduos. Realização de reuniões com parceiros estratégicos, como a ONG Semear e os projetos Óleo Verde e Doe Óleo, para a criação de soluções em conjunto. Co-criação de soluções sustentáveis com a comunidade, incluindo a instalação de toneis para o descarte adequado de óleo de cozinha. Definição junto a comunidade do investimento a ser realizado a partir do retorno financeiro. Definição da forma a ser investido o retorno financeiro obtido com o descarte sustentável do óleo. Atividades a Serem Realizadas: Prototipação: Criação de um protótipo de tonel para coleta de óleo na comunidade, em parceria com o Doe Óleo. Validação inicial do protótipo e planejamento para aprimoramento com base no feedback dos moradores. Criação de protótipo da solução de investimentos mensais e gestão financeira do retorno do projeto de forma que todo valor Gabriella Marques Soares Gomes Sumar Brazil Grande Belo Horizonte https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/rmbh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/333567 2024-09-09T00:00:00Z 2025-03-05T09:55:48Z "O objetivo do projeto e integrar alunos, professores e a comunidade ao espaço escolar, promovendo um ambiente de seguridade social e acolhimento. Nesse sentido, os alunos se sentem mais pertecentes ao ambiente escolar e, também, passam a zelar por ele. Entre nossas atividades constam: - Participação em competições estudantis, como o jogos escolares de belo horizonte (nossas alunas ficaram em 4° lugar). - Torneios internos com presença de alunos, responsáveis e professores. (times mistos que promovam a participação de todos, respeitando a equidade entre as partidas). - Sistema de monitoramento e auxilio aos alunos com fragilidade econômica, os membros do DVC ajudam uns aos outros através de vaquinhas e doações de roupas, tênis e demais demandas identificadas. - Acompanhamento de notas, frequência e convívio escolar, os membros menores de 18 anos devem estar frequentes e com um bom aproveitamento na escola em que estiverem matrículados. Ademais, os alunos também são entrevistados sobre suas dificuldades de relaciomento inter e intrapessoais no ambiente escolar. - Preparação física e treino esportivo de voleibol." Christian Oliveira DVC (Drummond Voleibol Clube) Brazil Grande Belo Horizonte https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/rmbh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/289836 2024-09-08T00:00:00Z 2024-09-08T21:52:09Z This proposal is to create a successful Porchfest that celebrates local music and fosters community spirit in the City of Newburgh. Newburgh can join the growing movement of local “Porchfests” a self-organizing music festival that takes place on porches, in yards, and other local venues. Originating in Ithaca, New York in 2007, Porchfest has expanded to over 125 cities across North America. These festivals celebrate local music and community spirit by featuring performances from various musicians who play on private porches. Musicians participate voluntarily, showcasing a wide range of genres from country to jazz. These events are facilitated by volunteers and local organizations, with schedules and maps often available online. Typically, attendees walk or bike between performances, and some Porchfests also include arts and food vendors. This first year will be very about showing a proof of concept. Start small. Dream big. Newburgh’s first Porchfest will be on Saturday October 12th 9 performances on 9 porches throughout a 15 block radius in the northeast corner of the City of Newburgh (see map) Lisa Pellegrino Newburgh Porchfest https://porchfest.info/ United States Newburgh, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/newburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/298542 2024-09-08T00:00:00Z 2024-10-29T16:01:08Z C.R.O.W.N.S- Creative, Rounds, Of Objects & Opportunities Within, Nuturing, Socials C.R.O.W.N.S will be a series of social gatherings where students can create fun crafts geared towards their age group. My hope is to meet monthly with youth first and adults next. C.R.O.W.N.S first meet & greet will be a "Blue Jean Paint Affair!" Ages 5 - 13 yrs may bring a pair of jeans or a jacket to decorate. ( I will purchase some items for those who may not have) Each craft meeting will consist of introductions and confidence building affirmations & conversation to strengthen confidence and communication within ourselves and group settings. My goal is to give our youth an "Awesome" activity in a safe, team building environment. Eventually a just for parent/guardian meet & greet is next on my list. Glenda Faison-Crawford C.R.O.W.N.S "Blue Jean Affair" United States Newburgh, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/newburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/289828 2024-09-06T00:00:00Z 2024-09-09T01:10:16Z The Coffee+Click Camera Club was first established in the UK and is one of many projects that is part of The Ageing Creatively program operated by the Corn Exchange. It's based in Newbury and supported by the Greenham Trust. The project, as Giles Penfold, photographer and volunteer, described it, was about social connection. It just happened to use photography as the anchor or interest point. It is not about a traditional photo club. It is about providing an opportunity for people to meet - and they can talk about photos or photography - or other things. The Awesome grant will help me to establish an equivalent club in Adelaide for people transitioning to retirement or who have retired. It was suggested to me that this could be a "men's shed for those interested in photographs or photography". It may also be appropriate to run it as a community shed open to all genders. I think the interest will emerge and help determine the best focus. Mark Mackay Coffee+Click Camera Club Australia Adelaide https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/adelaide tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/284959 2024-09-04T00:00:00Z 2024-09-18T22:16:16Z Imagine a garden where we sow seeds of hope, resilience, and community. This is Seeds of Recovery, a grassroots initiative to support mental health recovery at the acute mental health inpatient service of the Calvary Mater hospital. The clinical environment of a mental health service unit can feel isolating and disconnected from the outside world. We know that mental health recovery isn't just about receiving medical treatment, it's about cultivating skills and social connections that continue to grow after hospital discharge. We also know of the positive impact that nature-based activities have on mental health recovery. However, due to multitude of factors, opportunities for meaningful outdoor engagement in this context are currently limited. But what if we have found a way to support those receiving treatment to reconnect with nature, supportive relationships, and themselves? Seeds of Recovery does exactly that. This gardening program is led by fourth-year occupational therapy students from the University of Newcastle, in collaboration with mental health professionals and those with lived experience, to offer a hands-on, co-designed, and nature-based approach to recovery. This is an inclusive space where consumers, families, carers, and staff can come together away from the clinical setting to nurture both plants and hope in a bright future. Picture our team transforming a bare courtyard and a patch of earth into a vibrant collective garden. As our garden flourishes, so too will the relationships and skills of everyone involved, creating positive change throughout our community. We have the site, the knowledge, and a team of enthusiastic volunteers ready to get started. What we need now is a small amount of funding to purchase the materials necessary to bring our vision to life. With your support, Seeds of Recovery will soon be a thriving community where mental health recovery can take root. Thank you for your consideration. Frances McCafferty Seeds of Recovery Australia Newcastle https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/newcastle tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/289941 2024-09-04T00:00:00Z 2024-09-06T02:05:34Z In the midst of a cost of living crisis, the Old Fitz Theatre (OFT) is supporting our vibrant arts/culture sector with 2 days of affordable headshot sessions for artists, doubling as an integral fundraiser for the Fitz’s 2025 operations. Across 12 hours the OFT will offer 34x 20-minute sessions in which artists will be photographed by Patrick Phillips in a studio set-up at the OFT. These sessions will be priced at just $50, or $30 for students. This is an ENORMOUSLY competitive price, with average headshot packages in Sydney ranging from $445-$1100. Why are we doing this? As an independent theatre venue we have found that creatives often don’t have up-to-date headshots, especially non-actors. Reasons for this are the cost being prohibitive, waitlists for photographers being too long, and the effort of organising them being overwhelming. We want to provide an easy, accessible solution, and ensure all creatives can be visually represented/celebrated, and have the tools they need to pursue professional opportunities. It is important to us that this initiative fairly compensates our photographer, Patrick. Patrick is an emerging photographer, and we are very excited to support his professional development and help him build his portfolio, and through this grant we will be able to pay him a fee of ~$66/hour. As an independent theatre venue, we are constantly required to dedicate significant resources towards fundraising efforts to keep our lights on. We do not charge upfront fees to artists using the space, but instead risk-share with artists via a box-office split model. And the nature of that is, well, risky! Through fundraising efforts like this, we can not only service our sector now, but ensure that we will still be here standing strong in the years to come, continuing the good work! PLUS, this grant will allow us to purchase the equipment we need to make this activity a fixture of the OFT’s annual program so that we can have a long-term, sustainable impact. This project will make Sydney more awesome by (1) providing a vital and inexpensive service for Sydney artists, (2) supporting a not-for-profit independent theatre venue that is beloved by the community, (3) upskilling an emerging photographer, and (4) connecting creatives from across disciplines, (re)introducing them to the OFT, and contributing to a greater sense of community in the arts. The awesome impacts are further broken down as follows: + Support for Local Artists: These affordable headshot sessions will provide a critical resource for artists who might otherwise be priced out of high-quality photographic services. This initiative helps level the playing field for artists across different disciplines, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to present themselves professionally. + Boosting Visibility and Equity: By promoting these headshot sessions for “artists” as opposed to purely just “actors”, we are addressing the disparity in visibility between actors and other creative professionals. This project is awesome in the way it promotes a more equitable representation of all contributors on creative projects, enhancing recognition and appreciation for the entire team. + Supporting Emerging Talent: Through the professional development this opportunity offers photographer Patrick Phillips we are injecting fresh talent into Sydney’s creative community. + Sustaining the Old Fitz Theatre: By generating funds through this initiative, the Old Fitz Theatre can continue to operate and support the arts community. The success of this project will help ensure the venue remains a vibrant part of Sydney’s cultural landscape and nightlife. + Long-term Impact: The equipment purchased through this grant will allow us to create a sustainable model that benefits the arts community year after year, providing a valuable service and contributing to the overall health of Sydney’s creative sector. + Community Engagement: By offering this service at a significantly reduced rate, the project fosters a sense of community and collaboration among artists, reinforcing the supportive network that is essential for a thriving cultural scene. Emma Wright Affordable Headshots for Artists http://www.oldfitztheatre.com.au Australia Sydney https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/sydney tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/283874 2024-09-03T00:00:00Z 2024-08-15T21:42:00Z Book Drive for Kids holds free book fairs for disadvantaged kids in Austin-area Title 1 Schools and in foster care. A $1000 grant from the Austin Awesome Foundation will help ensure that every kid at one of this year’s nine book fairs will go home with a brand-new book, and hopefully fall in love with reading. Brooke Terry Free Book Fairs for Disadvantaged Kids https://bookdriveforkids.com/austin/ United States Austin, TX https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/austin tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/284606 2024-08-31T00:00:00Z 2024-09-02T17:04:31Z The National Disabled Legal Professionals Association (NDLPA) is a national association of disabled lawyers, judges, policy experts, legislators, academics, and other legal workers, professionals, and organizers. NDPLA was founded in 2022 to organize and unify disabled legal professionals into a force for change, and to advocate for and empower disabled legal professionals. NDLPA strives to promote professional growth and opportunity for disabled attorneys and legal professionals; provide community service; improve access and inclusion in the profession; and ensure access to justice for all. We create resources, host events, have a mentorship program, share information about professional opportunities, and so much more. Our main goal is to ensure that disabled legal professionals feel supported and do not have to reinvent the wheel. We hope to provide the help we wished we had started out--and for folks to know they are not alone. We want folks to know their rights, and we want employers to understand their obligations and best practices, while recognizing the ADA is the floor, not the ceiling. Most importantly, we want to change the culture of the legal profession, which is extremely disabling in itself. We incorporated in the District of Columbia on February 16, 2024, and we were recently approved for our 501(c)(3) status. **What our grantee is saying:** "We are so honored to receive this generous grant from the Awesome Foundation, which will allow us to kickstart the work we are passionate about -- supporting other disabled legal professionals navigating a largely inaccessible and exclusionary profession. We are excited to finally be able to create an accessible website that houses critical resources and information for disabled legal professionals." Marissa Ditkowsky National Disabled Legal Professionals Association Worldwide Disability https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/disability tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/287763 2024-08-31T00:00:00Z 2024-11-27T17:15:23Z The Hamilton Bear Project is an exciting initiative that connects Birkenhead’s hidden historical ties to Peru with a fun, creative experience for young people and their families. We're targeting 50 young people and their parents/carers, benefiting at least 100 people. Our project is all about inclusivity, focusing on SEND families, low-income households, and those on the CAMHS waiting list. Why is this important? Birkenhead has a unique link to Peru, especially with the story of Admiral Grau and the Huascar battleship, celebrated by a little-known plaque at Monk's Ferry. We’re taking this fascinating history and making it come alive through Hamilton Bear, our fictional Andean bear named after Hamilton Square. With the buzz around the new Paddington movie, we're turning the spotlight on the real Andean bear and Birkenhead’s connection to Peru. Our project will feature a vibrant family event at Bloom Building—a space that’s perfect for SEND families to feel at ease and which we've used many times before. We have a volunteer Peruvian Zoologist who will help us focus on the animals and culture of Peru. Young people through surveys and small groups have told us they love learning about animals, so we have additional buy in. Plus, young people can join a comic strip competition to decide the next chapter of Hamilton Bear’s adventure! We’ve tried other grants and sponsorships without success, so your support is crucial to keeping this project free and accessible to those who need it most. We’ll work with SENDLO, The Positivitree, and CAMHS to ensure we reach underserved families. We’re also working with local youth groups to get their input and make sure the project, and the comic competition, is something they’re excited about. In short, the Hamilton Bear Project is all about bringing history to life, celebrating culture, and having loads of fun along the way. With your help, we can make this a reality for the families who will benefit the most! Diana Powell Meet Hamilton Bear! Peru in Hamilton Square! http://www.ukunplugged.org United Kingdom Liverpool https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/liverpool tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/288555 2024-08-31T00:00:00Z 2024-09-10T14:54:56Z Women on the Water (WOW) is a free rowing and sailing program for women of all ages in Tacoma, Washington. Women on the Water was created to inspire and empower women through maritime education and experience. During the pandemic, the program lost both its home and its momentum. Now, a collaboration between two local maritime non-profits is breathing new life into Women on the Water. WOW provides unique access to mentorship and opportunities to develop maritime skills such as rowing, sailing, and navigation. Participants also increase physical fitness and confidence, and build teamwork and leadership abilities on the water. The program aims to create a compassionate and resilient community where women can share experiences and support each other's growth. Beyond individual benefits, WOW increases women's representation and participation in the traditionally male-dominated maritime world. Through this program, women gain confidence and expertise, contributing to safer, more inclusive maritime communities. Cori Shooter Women on the Water https://www.fosswaterwayseaport.org/boat-shop-foss-waterway-seaport Worldwide On the Water https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/onthewater tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/285801 2024-08-31T00:00:00Z 2024-09-11T00:40:43Z For too long, cycling advocates have gathered together at the sites of cycling fatalities, to install a memorial bike and go on to have a memorial ride honoring those cyclists. It is an ad hoc group, with a volunteer collecting bikes no longer rideable. He then paints them white and delivers them to the site of the fatality. One of the most recent installations saw around 600 cyclists attend. Families also attend, are are truly moved by the recognition of those cyclists, so they are not nameless fatalities. There are many volunteers involved to make sure those cyclists aren't forgotten. Besides the volunteer who paints the bikes, there are others who touch up the paint, who organize the memorial, who ensure bikes that are damaged get replaced, and to also ensure that no cyclist memorials are missing. Each bike needs at least 2 coats of weather-proof metal paint. People donate towards that cost when they think of it, but it often isn't enough. The Awesome Foundation grant will go a long way to being part of this incredibly moving and important grass roots initiative--it is important to keep cyclist safety in the forefront so that more protected cycle paths are constructed, so cyclists aren't afraid to get out and ride, and so that motorists understand cyclists are a part of our urban landscape and we have to find a way to exist together. Karen Ingham Ghost Bike Memorials Canada Toronto https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/toronto tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/294320 2024-08-31T00:00:00Z 2024-09-20T16:41:41Z Day 1 Bags Beyond the Bag project transform cold, sterile courtrooms into an amazing, warm, celebratory scene during an Adoption or Reunification event in childrens' courts. Here is a direct testimony - “Sometimes an adoption hearing can be very sterile and cold. Often it’s just a quick proceeding to check the box and make it official. Having Judge Cohoon officiate our adoption in Kendall County was a heartwarming and memorable experience. From her kind words to the special moment allowing my adopted sons to ‘adopt’ their very own stuffed animal, this experience is seared into our family’s  minds and hearts.” - Adoptive Mother. We fill every courtroom with high quality stuffed animals and dolls. Each child (and we allow siblings too) get to go and "adopt" a juror, with its own decree, and it becomes a keepsake for a child to commemorate the last day of foster care!   Hunter Beaton Beyond the Bag - Courtroom Makeovers! http://day1bags.org United States San Antonio, TX https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/sanantonio tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/284757 2024-08-31T00:00:00Z 2024-10-09T02:05:07Z August’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to Letitia Charbonneau for a climate action mural project by seniors and youth. “The mural,” explains Letitia, “will commemorate the first [National Seniors for Climate Day] (https://seniorsforclimate.org/). Over 50 events will be taking place across Canada, and the mural will bring attention to the urgency of dealing with climate change.” The mural will be designed and produced by seniors and youth working with [Claudia Salguero] (https://www.claudiasalguero.com/), a well-known local muralist. A collaborative project, it will be “a marvellous opportunity for dialogue,” says Letitia. She hopes to produce a video of the process. Letitia is a convener for [Seniors for Climate Action Now – Ottawa] (https://seniorsforclimateactionnow.org/scan-ottawa/), and a retired middle school teacher. Letitia Charbonneau Seniors for Climate Mural Project http://www.seniorsforclimate.org Canada Ottawa https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/ottawa tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/275453 2024-08-29T00:00:00Z 2024-08-30T01:43:11Z I’m creating a lifesize sculpture that is my version of the Gloucester fisherman “man at the wheel” statue. It is completely made up of scrap metal including many hundreds of pounds of fishing gear from the 90 foot trawler boat out of Gloucester “Midnight Sun”. When the gear including shackles, swivels, hammerlocks, links, hooks, chains and more becomes stiff or unusable for fishing it has to be replaced. I use all the worn gear I can get for nautical projects. The best thing about this project is that it’s going be at a place we all know in Gloucester where everyone can see it. Kris Francis Fisherman United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/281092 2024-08-28T00:00:00Z 2024-08-28T22:06:30Z Սիրելի՜ ՕՍՄ , մեծ ուրախությամբ ուզում եմ Ձեզ պատմել «ԷկոԿրթարան․Ծառերը մանրադիտակի տակ» հեղինակային, էկոկրթական աշխատարանի մասին, որը ծնվել է իմ երազանքից ՝ երազանք ոգեշնչել երեխաներին սիրել բնութունը և կատարել իրենց փոքրիկ քայլերը բնությունը և գիտությունը բացահայտելու ճանապարհին։Ինքս բացարձակապես սիրահարված եմ բնությանը՝ ծառերին և ուզում եմ այդ հիացմունքով կիսվել ավելի ու ավելի շատ երեխաների հետ, որովհետև իսկական կախարդանքի է նման տեսնել, թե ինչպես նրանց աչքերը փայլում բնության թաքնված, անտեսանելի հրաշքները բացահայատելիս։ Այս նախագծի ընթացքում մասնակիցները ․տեսնում են ծառերը այնպիսին , ինչպիսին երբևէ չեն տեսել, ․շփվում են բնության և միմյանց հետ՝ ջերմ ու դրական միջավայրում, ․հավաքում ու պատրաստում են աշխատանքային նմուշներ, որոնք ուսումնասիրում են մանրադիտակով։ Ըստ Շրջակա միջավայրի նախարարության գրավոր թույլտվության նախագիծը անցկացնելու համար մեզ տրամադրվում են անվճար ենթակա բոլոր կառույցները։ Նշեմ որ սեփական ներդրմամբ անցկացրել՝փորձարկել ենք աշխատարանը Ջրվեժ անտառպարկում նոյեմբերից և ահա թե ինչպիսի «արկածային» մարտահրավերների ենք բախվել։Մեկ մոնոկուլյար, ոչ մեծ խոշորացում ունեցող մանրադիտակը նշանակում էր անհամբեր, շատ անհամբեր փոքրիկ գիտնականների երկար հերթեր և դժվարություն՝ մեկ աչքը փակած նայելիս։ Հանկարծակի անձրևները, ոչ մեկ անգամ, մեզ ստիպեցին պայքարել մեր մանրադիտակը միակ անձրևանոցով պաշտպանելու համար Բայց մենք համառ ու ստեղծագործական գտնվեցինք ու չնայած այս խոչընդոտներին՝ հաջողվեց ոգեշնչել մոտ 220 երեխայի և ասեմ, որ նրանց ոգևորությունը վարակիչ է և շատերն են հետաքրքրված և ուզում են մասնակցել։Այժմ նպատակ ունենք ավելի շատ երեխաների ընդգրկելու, (ամսեկան շուրջ քառասուն) Արցախի բռնի տեղահանված երեխաներ, հաշմանդամություն ունեցող երեխաներ, հեռավոր սահմանամերձ գյուղերի երեխաներ։ Դա անելու համար շարժական լաբին պետք է՝ ․բինոկուլյար կամ երկդիտակ ավելի մեծ խոշորացում ունեցող մանրադիտակ ․անձրևապաշտպան ծածկ։ Դիմում ենք Ձեզ, մեծ ոգևորությամբ ակնկալելով, հենց ՕՍՄ-ի աջակցությամբ կյանքի կոչել մեր հրաշալի նախագիծը։ Շնորհակալությամբ՝ էկոս «Էկոս» էկոկրթական, մշակութային ՀԿ, Նելլի Եղոյան «էԿՈԿՐԹԱՐԱՆ․ԾԱՌԵՐԸ ՄԱՆՐԱԴԻՏԱԿԻ ՏԱԿ» https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551924369706 https://www.facebook.com/share/r/64cXgbCMYd9j5Wgm/ https://www.facebook.com/share/p/HJG4vAZA9m1AfNqX/ Armenia Yerevan https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/yerevan tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/283086 2024-08-28T00:00:00Z 2024-08-30T13:24:49Z The RI Bird Guide aims to be a "functional, beautiful, and easy to understand guide that introduces birding to the local community, targeting a more diverse demographic." This will be a portable paperback book, 4.25 x 6.75 in size and roughly 225p in length, featuring illustrated birds that live or pass through RI. There's an online version, too. "Often, bird guides rely heavily on stiff scientific drawings, but this guide will feature illustrations that are more unique and lively, giving each bird a distinct personality, even while making sure they are relatively true to life." By observing bird behavior directly, the artist will create a contemporary interpretation in the age old tradition of birding and naturalist studies. The aim is to feature 75 - 100 birds that have been directly observed by the artist. joohee yoon RI Bird Guide United States Rhode Island https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/rhodeisland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/283875 2024-08-28T00:00:00Z 2024-09-01T14:27:40Z Girls Rock Glasgow is a volunteer-run CIC established in 2015 and officially constituted in 2024. We work to empower young girls, and nonbinary youth through instrument tuition, band formation, songwriting, stagecraft, arts workshops, and empowerment sessions. Our programs aim to enhance musical skills while fostering resilience, mental well-being and identity. By building confident and musical young girls we hope to address gender imbalances and create a more equal music industry and society. Using instrument tuition, band forming and song-writing alongside stagecraft, arts and empowerment workshops we work to narrow the gender imbalance for women in the music industry while contributing to overall mental well-being by instilling life skills, resilience, and fostering a strong sense of identity. From restarting the project in 2024, we have learnt of the lasting impact the project has had. Many parents of ex-participants have been in contact to say how big an impact past summer schools and showcases had on their children. Some of the participants signed up to take part in this years summer school spoke in their application of being a member of the audience for showcases in the past, wishing they were old enough to take part and are now very excited about the project returning now that they have come of age. On top of that nearly half of our volunteer team are returning members of projects from the past, some returning volunteers and some ex-participants now returning to either support on the summer school or perform at our fundraising events. Girls Rock Glasgow stands out for its holistic approach to musicianship. We blend arts, culture, and wellbeing to empower young girls+. We aim to continue to build our work so our participants are able to transition from our projects into continuous involvement in music. Beth Girls Rock Glasgow http://www.girlsrockglasgow.com United Kingdom Glasgow https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/glasgow tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/287122 2024-08-28T00:00:00Z 2025-03-13T15:49:30Z Dear Awesome Grant Committee, I am writing to add more information on regards to my request for funding for the Community of Argentine Tango, a group dedicated to building an inclusive dance community since December 2007. After the pandemic, we faced challenges in finding a new venue for our dance sessions, as our regular spot at Webster’s Café was no longer available. We initially moved to the community space at St. Andrews Church but had to relocate again when that space became unavailable. We are now using a cozy, visible venue, which comfortably accommodates about 30 dancers. I secured an annual rental agreement for $1,000, allowing us to use the space 2-4 times a month. Since 2022, we have utilized this space regularly. However, due to my full-time work commitments, we have had to reduce our meetings to twice a month for most of this year. I aim to increase the frequency of our sessions, with a focus on engaging more community members. In the interim, I offer guided practice sessions every other Friday, where I teach for free both the leader and follower roles for every experience level. Carolina Pulido Keep live the Tango in State College https://sites.google.com/site/tangostatecollege/tango-in-state-college-pennsylvania United States State College, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/statecollege tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/279566 2024-08-27T00:00:00Z 2024-08-28T01:01:55Z Villarte Chicago is a collective of artists and organizers in Little Village that has a long tradition of celebrating local arts and culture by transforming neighborhood spaces into opportunities for art expression. Since 2006, Villarte Chicago’s main event, the Little Village Arts Festival, has been a beacon of pride on Chicago’s Southwest Side. Every November, Villarte Chicago collaborates with local Artists, organizations, businesses and volunteers to create a weekend art-walk composed of pop-up galleries that celebrates the talent and culture of the community. This entire effort is guided by volunteers. The festival is a critical component for local artists, youth and families to show artwork and discuss the important art practices and opportunities available both in and outside the community. We collaborate with local business owners to transform their storefronts into pop-up galleries and/or commission local artists to create a Day of the Dead altar in their window to create an art walk along 26th Street. There are also workshops taught by local artists. Community members participate in the Little Village Arts Festival by visiting the various pop-up galleries and installations as well as taking part in workshops taught by local artists. Entrance to the festival is free and participation in all workshops and events are free. This year's festival will be held November 2nd and 3rd. Laura Nunez Little Village Arts Fest 2024 https://www.facebook.com/VillarteChicago/ United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/272382 2024-08-27T00:00:00Z 2024-08-30T12:13:57Z Our Kindergarten Play Yard is in need of an update. Last year we were able to get some games painted on the pavement. Unfortunately there is not much more for the kids to do out there. We are hoping to get some new activities for them to have at recess to play with. Meghan Grech Kindergarten Play Yard Update Canada Newmarket https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/newmarket-ontario tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/285856 2024-08-25T00:00:00Z 2024-09-30T01:33:40Z To build a website which will be built by local 'Aldinga Media" located on the Fleurieu Peninsula which will allow Judith's Legacy to easily manage menu items & updates. Judith's Legacy needs a website that functions as a powerful marketing & communications tool to attract new interest and provide credibility to existing followers and will improve the capability to promote Judith's Legacy's aim in raising Awareness & Funds for Ovarian Cancer Research ( the women's silent killer) Outcomes that will be achieved by the website * the website will be accessible 24/7 can be regularly updated on content fundraising events * easily distributed to the 280 present data base * publish details of when/where /how funds are raised & where the funds are donated * this builds trust with supporters who donate money and items for raffles etc * linking the fundraising activities to a website can significantly improve the campaigns effectiveness reach & sustainability * the website can manage fundraising events registrations ticket sales issue receipts * can receive donations 24/7 via this link https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fiundraising/deanrowe/judith-s-legacy The website will give the opportunity to target a wider audience with better information for awareness & fundraising for ovarian cancer research * it will be aesthetically engaging * easy to navigate for information * communicate services & products Judith's Legacy will provide & sale items * it will provide the annual fundraising events & sponsorships * promote future fundraising events * the location of Judith's Collection Containers in local businesses Use Facebook - Judith's Legacy & Dean Rowe to post & promote coming fundraising events & locations of shopping centre activities Utilize other Facebook local groups (Aldinga Willunga Seaford Sellicks Mt Compass Community) Dean Rowe Website for Judith's Legacy Australia Fleurieu https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/fleurieu tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/285489 2024-08-20T00:00:00Z 2024-08-21T05:27:26Z This "Seahorse Makerspace" project is an inspiring initiative designed to ignite creativity, innovation, and critical thinking in our Wai'anae elementary students by establishing a dedicated makerspace on our school campus. This space will be a hub where students can explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) through hands-on projects that challenge them to solve real-world problems. In this Seahorse Makerspace, students will have access to a variety of tools and materials to design, build, and prototype their ideas. They’ll learn essential skills like coding, 3D design, engineering principles, and artistic expression, all while working collaboratively on projects that foster a love for learning and innovation. Whether it’s building a robotic hand, designing sustainable packaging, or creating interactive art, the possibilities are endless. The Seahorse Makerspace will empower our Wai'anae students to think creatively, work collaboratively, and develop critical problem-solving skills. By engaging in hands-on STEAM projects, students will gain confidence in their abilities to innovate and create, setting the foundation for lifelong learning and success in future careers. This makerspace will also strengthen our school’s commitment to sustainability by encouraging the use of recycled materials and eco-friendly practices in student projects. Through this project, I envision students becoming young innovators who can tackle challenges with creativity and ingenuity, making a positive impact on our school, community, and beyond. The Seahorse Makerspace is not just a room—it's a launchpad for future inventors, artists, engineers, and leaders. Donna Soriano Seahorse Makerspace: Empowering Young Innovators https://sites.google.com/waianaeelem.k12.hi.us/wes/about-us United States Oahu, HI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/oahu tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/281405 2024-08-19T00:00:00Z 2024-11-19T02:23:51Z The community of Muslim minorities in the United States often feels culturally invisible due to a lack of authentic representation in media and entertainment. Despite comprising a significant portion of the population, Muslims face barriers in finding products that authentically reflect their culture. With over 3 million Muslims in the U.S., the need for culturally relevant entertainment is evident. In Pittsburgh, there are 11 mosques and about 3,000 Muslims. We come from a variety of backgrounds such as South Asian, Arab, African-American, African, Southeast Asian, and Caucasian. Still, we are a minority and face many barriers, including discrimination. Through our innovative games, we strive to bridge cultural divides while fostering fun and camaraderie. Our first game, currently in development, is A Muslim Party Game. It is modeled after a tried-and-true party game that has many successful versions. Most people want to know their Muslim neighbor. Most Muslims want a seat at the table with products that they can see themselves in. A game is such a no-stakes, fun way to build bridges in the local Pittsburgh community, bringing everyone to the table. Safiyyah Scott A Muslim Party Game http://alimustafagames.com United States Pittsburgh, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/pittsburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/262996 2024-08-15T00:00:00Z 2024-08-15T21:25:44Z The Rosedale School is a specialized campus within Austin ISD that serves neurodivergent students aged 3 - 22 years old. Last year the school began a new school gardening program that has been a huge hit. However, many of Rosedale's students have limited movement, grasp strength, and/or use wheelchairs, which makes traditional gardening equipment difficult to use. A $1000 grant from the Austin Awesome Foundation will fund the purchase of adaptive gardening equipment to allow students more independence and ensure no one is left out! Amy Bartos Adaptive Gardening Equipment for AISD Students https://rosedale.austinschools.org/programs United States Austin, TX https://www.awesomefoundation.org/bg/chapters/austin