tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:/en/projects?page=1 2025-06-27T11:53:00Z tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/353761 2025-06-25T00:00:00Z 2025-06-27T11:53:00Z This month AFRI is supporting "The Diaries of Netovicius the Vampire, an audioseries produced in Providence and largely set in Rhode Island/New England. The Diaries is a fun, low-fantasy vampire story about recovery from trauma, evolving over the years alongside creator Hugo Pierre Martin who adds, "It's definitely a love-letter to this city I call home. " Funds support the hiring of local talent along with general production. Hugo Pierre Martin The Diaries of Netovicius the Vampire https://netovampire.com/ United States Rhode Island https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/rhodeisland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/353590 2025-06-25T00:00:00Z 2025-06-26T13:13:24Z We aim to create a series of accessible, hands-on workshops that introduce older adults to Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ways that are practical and engaging. Many seniors encounter AI daily—through smart speakers, healthcare apps, or financial tools—but often feel uncertain or left behind by rapid technological changes. Our workshops will demystify AI by focusing on real-life applications that can enhance seniors' independence, safety, health, and social connections. Key topics will include health monitoring (using smartwatches or telehealth apps to track vital signs and medications), online safety (how AI detects scams and protects privacy), smart home devices (voice assistants and security), and AI-powered communication tools that help seniors stay connected to family and friends. We will also help participants recognize AI-generated content designed to mislead or scam them, such as deepfakes, phishing emails, or fraudulent chatbots, giving them practical tools to stay vigilant in an increasingly digital world. Each session will be interactive, hands-on, and paced to match participants’ comfort levels. We will use plain language, avoid technical jargon, and provide opportunities for participants to practice using devices directly in a supportive, low-pressure environment. The grant will allow us to create a fully developed prototype of the workshop series, including curriculum, materials, and delivery methods, that we can refine based on participant feedback. Once tested, this prototype can serve as a model we replicate at additional sites, multiplying the long-term impact of this initial investment and reaching many more seniors across Centre County and beyond. Workshops will be offered at community centers, libraries, and senior living facilities, where participants already feel comfortable. Over time, we aim to build a lasting learning community where seniors feel empowered to confidently engage with AI technologies in their daily lives. Wael Jabr Silver & Savvy: Bringing AI to Our Seniors https://onehandfoundation.org/ United States State College, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/statecollege tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/354558 2025-06-25T00:00:00Z 2025-06-26T13:13:11Z The New Ground Orchestra Festival is bringing professional women musicians from our local community, throughout Pennsylvania, the east coast, and even as far as Washington state and Belgium to State College from July 22nd through July 26th. The time will be spent focusing on health and well-being, intentional connection with the local community, and invigorating the rehearsal process to close with an exciting concert that includes the east coast premiere of "Immortal Beloved" for violin and orchestra. Health and well-being ~ Through therapeutic sessions: journaling (led by Carolyne Meehan), singing (led by Patti Begg), Eurythmy (a movement art that I will lead), and selfcare sessions led by Revive Massage, the musicians will receive support for their own growth and development, allowing them to inspire and bring to new life to their playing. Intentional connection with the local community: Each morning the musicians will give their helping hands to a local organization. The following organizations will welcome the musicians for community service: ClearWater Conservancy, Plowshare Produce, and Centre Safe. The festival will close with a concert on Friday, July 25th in the Recital Hall at the Penn State School of Music. The concert is free to the public and donations will be collected for Centre Safe. As a musician it is essential that we maintain our passion and inspiration for performing so that we can give a wealth of inspiration and strength to our audiences. Often the realities of a professional musician's schedule does not allow time to focus on health and how we can best connect with and serve our community with our gifts. The festival has been created to give women musicians a window of time to work and grow professionally, while also strengthening themselves through connection with the local community, therapeutic artistic exercises, and support in self-care. Rebekah Kathleen O'Brien New Ground Orchestra Festival United States State College, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/statecollege tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/350785 2025-06-25T00:00:00Z 2025-06-25T19:50:46Z Ujan is proud to be the birthplace of a truly unique and flavorful variety of peach – the Ujan Peach. To honor this rich agricultural heritage and create a distinctive identity for the village, we are launching a community branding initiative under the slogan: “The Real Ujan Peach is Only in Ujan.” Key Element of the Project: Peach-Shaped Street Number Boards: In a creative twist, all street number signs in the village will be redesigned in the shape of a peach. This small but powerful detail will reinforce the branding throughout the village, making the experience of walking through Ujan both charming and memorable. Vahagn Mosinyan Unique street signs of Ujan! Armenia Yerevan https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/yerevan tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/351789 2025-06-24T00:00:00Z 2025-06-26T15:23:49Z Aldridge Elementary is seeking funding to repair and purchase used band instruments through Kagan and Gaines Music Co., Inc. to expand our morning band program. When the music program was reintroduced in 2024 after a five-year hiatus, we began rebuilding from scratch. Currently, only nine students participate due to a lack of functional instruments. Many more have expressed interest, but the program cannot grow without access to quality, playable instruments. Our school is located within a Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) public housing project on the far South Side of Chicago. As a Title I school serving a predominantly Black student population, we face significant challenges related to systemic underfunding and limited access to arts education. By repairing and purchasing instruments, we aim to create a sustainable instrument bank that allows more students to join the band each year, regardless of their families’ financial means. This project also prepares students for participation in the Illinois Solo & Ensemble Contest, a key milestone that supports technical development, builds confidence, and raises Aldridge’s visibility within the broader CPS arts community. Repaired instruments will remain in our inventory and serve students for years to come, creating a long-term impact on music access and equity in our school community. We believe every student deserves the chance to experience the joy, discipline, and lifelong skills that come from being part of a band. With your support, we can provide more instruments, more access, and more opportunity—for students today and in the future. Daniel Kumapayi Music In The Gardens https://aldridgeeagles.org/ United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/352580 2025-06-19T00:00:00Z 2025-06-23T19:28:16Z Robot in the Park is raising environmental awareness through creative robot art, first with Robot Butterfly! This initiative has two parts: a hands-on workshop and public park activities. We’re running a Robot Butterfly workshop at the Boys & Girls Club (BGC) STEM & Robotics Centre starting mid July. Eight youth participants will each build their own Robot Butterfly (https://robotmissions.org/store/product/robot-butterfly-kit/) from a kit, paying a reduced cost of $25. They will hands-on learn electronics soldering, assembling 3D printed pieces, and firmware programming. They keep their Robot Butterfly and can have it featured in the Robot in the Park activities, where others can interact with their creations. Our Robot in the Park (https://robotinthepark.org/) public activities run throughout the summer in Kingston’s parks and are free to attend. Perfect for young and old who enjoy learning more about nature and technology. In this real-world adventure game, participants embark on nature-technology quests, using illustrated guide cards to learn facts about wildlife and observe details in nature. To complete the challenge, they interact with the Robot Butterflies nestled near plants, learning how it responds to the environment. We previously ran a similar version in Ottawa (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vC-aEnBU9cg) which was a big hit with all ages. We’re proud to partner with BGC (https://www.bgcsoutheast.ca/programs/education-and-stem/). They are one of Canada’s largest youth STEM centres, supporting over 1,200 youth from equity-deserving groups. BGC will manage registration, launching June 20, and host the workshops in their inspiring space. Support from Awesome Kingston will make these workshops accessible, cover park fees, and supplies. Insurance, which is required for running the activities, has already been covered thanks to Erin’s speaker honorarium from a tech conference. Erin RobotZwrrl Robot in the Park https://robotinthepark.org/ Canada Kingston https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/kingston-on tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/351199 2025-06-19T00:00:00Z 2025-06-20T01:07:12Z Sea Circles is a summer surf series for self-identified girls. We meet every Tuesday, starting July 1st- August 26th. from 6-8 pm at either Good Harbor Beach or Long Beach. Sea Circles is much more than a surf lesson. It’s a community-based program that harnesses the transformative power of the ocean to support emotional well-being, self-expression, and leadership in girls. Surfing becomes a vehicle for positive self-development, inviting participants to engage not only with the waves but with themselves and one another. At Sea Circles, we encourage participants to connect with their mind, heart, and body. The ocean brings us into the present moment, a place where we can access peace, perspective, and renewed optimism. As we learn to ride the waves, we also learn to navigate emotions, challenge our limits, and awaken a sense of awe and belonging. Sea Circles is designed specifically for self-identified girls, recognizing that girls still face gender-based marginalization. By creating intentional, affirming spaces free from social pressure, we invite participants to show up authentically and safely. This emotional safety is essential for confidence, expression, and healing. Building confidence is a pillar of Sea Circles. Surfing is hard, and learning something difficult in a group setting reminds us that we are not alone. We all experience fear, frustration, and joy. We help participants recognize and reframe negative self-talk, celebrate progress, and build each other up. At each session, participants are invited to share something they’re proud of and offer a compliment to someone else, reinforcing personal growth and community care. Our staff and volunteers are dedicated, supportive water women who act as mentors and role models. They create meaningful relationships, sharing knowledge, encouragement, and a deep respect for the sea. These relationships are foundational to the Sea Circles experience. Susan Wood Sea Cirlces http://www.lovegrows.love United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/335676 2025-06-15T00:00:00Z 2025-06-15T22:48:54Z **The Game** In 2016, a vision was set in motion: Could a board game embody the essence of Dragon Dreaming? Could play become a path to co-creation, collective intelligence, and regenerative action? The answer began to take form through sketches, storytelling, and experiments with participatory arts. Over the years, The DragonTree evolved, shaped by workshops, prototypes, and the wisdom of those who engaged with it. **The Quest** Now, in 2025, the time has come to bring this game to life. The DragonTree is entering its final stage, ready to be shared with the world as a tool for learning, playing, and transforming together. It is a game where winning means collaborating skillfully, where wisdom is gained through nimble, purposeful action, and where true success is only achieved as a collective. **The Forest** In this adventurous board game, four archetypal characters—The Magician, The Pioneer, The Bridge-Builder, and The Dragon Lady—embark on a journey toward the Earth Gate, a symbol of regenerative culture and collective flourishing. Along the way, they discover that their greatest challenge is not the obstacles ahead but their ability to collaborate effectively. **The Council** Each character has unique superpowers that allow them to move, support others, and influence the game dynamics. But only by working together can they reach the center and complete their quest. The game reflects Dragon Dreaming’s fourfold path—Dreaming, Planning, Doing, and Celebrating—where action is guided by deep listening, intuition, and shared vision **The Bridge** The game serves as a connector, linking players to global networks of place-based activism, Dragon Dreaming practitioners, and regenerative communities. It is Accessible to All Ages & Backgrounds, Merging arts, storytelling, and systems sensing, to invite intergenerational and intercultural participation for a win win win futures. **How I will use the money:** This grant will bring The DragonTree to life by supporting: 1. Co-Design & Refinement (25%) – Host sessions to fine-tune game mechanics, storytelling, and play dynamics. 2. Visual Development (25%) – Create artwork, board design, and an intuitive rulebook. 3. Open-Source Publication (25%) – Produce a printable version, making the game widely accessible. 4. Hybrid Launch Party (25%) – Organize an in-person and online event to introduce The DragonTree to the world **A little about me:** I am Uri Noy Meir, a practitioner and facilitator dedicated to bringing together arts, storytelling, and participatory practices to promote collective well-being and environmental regeneration. My work revolves around creating spaces where individuals and communities can tap into their collective intelligence and creativity to address social and ecological challenges. Dragon Dreaming has been a core community and compass on my journey. **Apart from the money, how else can the broader Dragon Dreaming community help you?** A community to co design, refine, test and launch the game into the world Amount funded: 666 euros Uri Noy meir DragonTree: A Collective Dreaming Board Game Worldwide Dragon Dreaming https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/dragondreaming tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/346400 2025-06-15T00:00:00Z 2025-06-13T14:57:57Z Some collaborators and I have scheduled and planned a celebration of all things pollinators and native plants. This will be a family friendly event held at Gooseberry Park in Moorhead, MN on June 17, 2025 from 4 pm to 8 pm. A variety of activities will take place, including a "facelift" for one of the needy, weedy garden areas near the playground. Before the event, the organizing team will select a site and prepare it for planting native plants to support pollinators and other wildlife. Adults and children will be invited to plant plugs of native plants appropriate for the spot. The organizational team will add educational signage and continue to care for the site. In addition to the plug planting, we will have printed educational material to share and a display about the importance of native plants. We will have a variety of activities, such as seed paper making, bee house making, planting echinacea seeds to take home, stories about pollinators, plants and birds, a tree walk, face painting and food. In addition to supporting one of Moorhead's parks by reviving a garden area, our big goal is to provide hands on education about native plants. We hope to encourage community members to continue learning about the importance of native plants. We will provide hands on experience and information to help citizens gain confidence and interest in adding native plants to landscapes in our parks, public spaces, commercial and city spaces and even private yards. We hope to build a movement to increase native habitat and wildlife in our urban spaces, to beautify our city, to enrich our quality of life, and to support our ecosystem. The team supporting this project are: *Jillian Patrie, University of Minnesota Extension *Crystal Rayamajhi, U of M Extension *Noelle Harden, U of M Extension *Sydney Stock, U of M Extension Master Gardener Intern *Martha Wheeler, U of M Extension Master Gardener Intern Martha Kathryn Wheeler Flutterby Fest (A Celebration of Pollinators) http://NA United States Cass Clay https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/cassclay tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/316079 2025-06-12T00:00:00Z 2025-06-27T01:00:36Z AwesomeStPaul is proud to announce our June 2025 grantee, Communty-driven Food Rescue. This program rescues surplus food that would otherwise go to waste and redistributes it to those most in need. A significant percentage of food, especially produce, in this country is discarded despite being perfectly good. This occurs at co-ops, grocery stores, restaurants, catering businesses, and distribution warehouses to make space for new shipments. We build relationships with grocery stores, food co-ops, restaurants, and other food distributors to rescue healthy surplus food. Every week, we conduct regular pickups of large amounts of food that would traditionally go to waste. Most of the food is fresh produce, which is often harder for people in need to find. In recent years, our food source partners have included Metro Star Produce Distributor, Brake Bread, Green Grocer, Red Table Meats and Fresh Thyme Market. We intentionally seek out food that would not be rescued by other organizations to ensure that our efforts are unique and impactful. We target smaller businesses like neighborhood groceries and restaurants, which are often overlooked by other food rescue programs. We provide ongoing training to these businesses, helping them identify and reduce food waste, thus increasing the amount of food we rescue over time. We also partner with many local organizations, from soup kitchens to neighborhood food shelves, to ensure this food reaches the most disadvantaged. Distribution partners in recent years have included Merrick Family Services, Loaves & Fishes, Keystone Food Shelves (Frogtown, Midway, & Merriam Park), Neighborhood House, & many more. Christopher Allison Community Driven Food Rescue http://www.community-driven.org United States St. Paul, MN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/stpaul tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/350934 2025-06-12T00:00:00Z 2025-06-13T01:49:58Z Hack The Land is a hackathon fully led by high-schoolers for HS students. A hackathon as described by Hack Club as a social coding marathon where teenagers come together to build projects for a weekend and share them with the world. Additionally MLH provides another article https://news.mlh.io/what-is-a-hackathon-10-30-2023. While there are other hackathons organized by Hyland, TechCorpsHack, and NASA. These events unfortunately do not have teenage organizers at the core of their events and oftentimes have themes which are good for giving participants a pathway doesn't give students the opportunity to create a project that represents them, their interests or their team and the teams shared interests. Hack The Land aims to break this dynamic and create an event where teenagers are empowered to create the projects of their imaginations with teenagers at the core of this event. Both as participants and as organizers. Essentially, our event is dedicated to giving Cleveland high-school students an amazing opportunity to meet with others who share their same interests, learn about, computer science, hardware, and coding. Culminating in creating a project in a team by collaborating with others and applying what they learn in creating an awesome project using provided hardware and taught skills with the support of our organizing team. Riley Bautista Hack The Land http://hacktheland.xyz United States Cleveland, OH https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/cleveland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/350945 2025-06-12T00:00:00Z 2025-06-13T01:49:19Z Upgrading to new mobile shelving is a game-changer for both safety and operational flow. By replacing our outdated, stationary units with sleek, movable systems, we’re creating a workspace that’s not only smarter but safer. Staff will be able to access items quickly and easily—no more awkward reaching, heavy lifting, or tight squeezes. The new shelving unlocks flexibility, maximizes our space, and keeps everything organized and within reach. It’s a powerful step forward that supports a faster, safer, and more efficient way to serve our community. Michelle Walsh Operational Space Upgrade http://www.goodsbankneo.org United States Cleveland, OH https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/cleveland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/336961 2025-06-12T00:00:00Z 2025-06-13T01:48:13Z This project promotes accessibility to the one of the regions largest natural resources: the Cuyahoga River. Equipping our communities with resources turns this regional divide into a place for recreation and togetherness. Trash Fish gets people of all walks of life into a kayak and onto the water cleaning up trash! Eddie paddles volunteers to places on the water where trash collects and provides an educational talk on the environmental justice issues regarding where plastics come from and how microplastics end up in Lake Erie which is the drinking water source for millions of people. As Trash Fishers are filling garbage bags full of garbage, they gain perspective on the destructive nature of single-use plastics. This exercise leads to ownership over our natural resources in a tangible and pragmatic approach. Reduce your consumption of plastic. As Cleveland Scene has put it, this project helps "teach Clevelanders the easiest way to clean the river is to fundamentally change how they behave as consumers from the start.” Anton Krieger Trash Fish https://trashfishcle.org/ United States Cleveland, OH https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/cleveland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/340812 2025-06-11T00:00:00Z 2025-06-30T12:31:37Z We have a program going on for instructor RC pilots where they get paired with a mentor. One thing we find is sometimes cost can be a barrier and we want to try and break that barrier. This is the concept but with their aircraft purchased though this program. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMqxDOkb4iA Brian Daerr Free Planes for Kids! http://www.flywam.org United States Westminster, MD https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/westminster tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/341583 2025-06-11T00:00:00Z 2025-06-12T02:32:09Z Our awesome project is putting together and funding the annual Firemen’s Fourth of July Parade and Bonfire in town. The parade is solely run on donations made to the association. A lot of work and money goes into running the parade and we try to make it better every year. Michael Elwell Firemens July Fourth Parade & Bonfire United States Rockport, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/rockport tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/351063 2025-06-11T00:00:00Z 2025-06-17T23:01:43Z In collaboration with American Indian Health & Family Services (AIHFS), we’re hosting an Adventure Race for Native American youth in Detroit on August 14, 2025. Open to participants in our summer biking program, the event is free and designed to inspire outdoor exploration, teamwork, and cultural connection through hands-on learning in the outdoors. Up to 30 youth (ages 6–18) will be divided into teams, each guided by a trained adult mentor. Youth will navigate between stages using maps or clues and take on skills challenges at each transition, testing their knowledge of outdoor survival and cultural ecology, including water purification, fire-making, and plant identification. Activities will include biking, hiking, kayaking/canoeing, geocaching, and wayfinding. All adults involved have first aid training, and kayaking equipment will be provided by a local, minority- and woman-owned outfitter. Each participant will receive a custom medal or ribbon created by a Native artist, recognizing their accomplishments. This initiative reflects our commitment to equitable access to nature, culturally grounded youth development, and empowering Native youth through connection to land, community, and self. Kris Dantzler Luki Bikes Adventure Race http://www.lukibikes.org United States Ann Arbor, MI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/ann-arbor tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/348852 2025-06-10T00:00:00Z 2025-06-11T21:40:48Z My goal is simple, I want to make sack lunches or feminine hygiene bags for the unhoused people on my street in the mission and on Polk. There is a specific lady I see once a month and I know she can never remember me fully but she always ask me for bread bologna and mustard when she's hungry. I've always wanted to actually uplift my community I hope with these funds I can achieve that Brenda Casey Bray Feed SF Locals United States San Francisco, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/sf tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/351171 2025-06-10T00:00:00Z 2025-06-11T13:24:39Z In the summer of 2025, two local nonprofits—Nourishing the North Shore and Three Sisters Garden Project—will partner to ensure that low-income residents of Ipswich, MA, continue to have reliable access to fresh, local food. Three Sisters Garden Project is relocating part of its operations after its landlord, the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (SND), changed the terms of a longstanding land-use agreement. As a result, Three Sisters will pause its weekly CSA distributions during the transition. To fill this temporary gap, Nourishing the North Shore will host three pop-up Free Farmers Markets at 3 Washington Street in Ipswich on August 26, September 9, and September 23. These markets will offer a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at no cost to local low-income residents, helping to ensure continued food access during the five-week disruption. Tany Blasko Pop-up Free Farmers Market https://www.nourishingthenorthshore.org/ United States Ipswich, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/ipswich tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/343487 2025-06-10T00:00:00Z 2025-06-10T19:35:14Z The Bake Lab: Cooking Up Nutrition Welcome to The Bake Lab, where creativity and nutrition go hand in hand! This school-based baking group is all about mixing fun with purpose. Students work together to bake delicious, wholesome treats that support our school’s nutrition program. From healthy muffins to energy-boosting snacks, every item will be crafted with care and the goal of promoting better eating habits for all. Our baked goods will help supplement the nutrition program, ensuring every student has access to healthy, balanced meals. Meaghan Lilley The Bake Lab Canada Newmarket https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/newmarket-ontario tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/345747 2025-06-10T00:00:00Z 2025-06-11T21:39:01Z he world is on fire, humans rights are being stripped away, and I’m crying at least once a week. Currently, our government is sliding into authoritarianism, gutting social programs, firing people, increasing surveillance, and making life harder for queer people. To Americans, this is new, but to Black Americans and immigrants — we used it to. So, why not tap into our Hooman resources and learn how to survive and prepare for what’s to come? The idea is to host a PowerPoint comedy show where immigrant comedians, activists and organizers provide tips on how to survive Authoritarianism. They will be providing tips on different topics such as Food, Medicine, Government/Policing, and Social Media. Examples include: if the FDA is going to be defunded, you should stock up on aspirin now as future products contaminations may not be caught as early. Another example: we expect grocery prices to rise, so if you’re struggling think of starting a hydroponic garden or joining your neighborhood community garden. Cynthia O How to survive Facism - a PowerPoint Comedy Show United States San Francisco, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/sf tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/347128 2025-06-10T00:00:00Z 2025-06-11T21:40:23Z I started Books & Barns because I wanted attend literary events that did not activate my social anxiety/PTSD, I wanted them to be close to where I live (Camp Meeker, Sonoma County), and I wanted spaces that valued intimacy. I'm deeply interested in community building and find myself struggling with social media's credos of 'more is better', echo-chambers, and 'it's not happening unless you are recording it.' I brought on my co-organizer Allegra Willson last season. We work together to cultivate a literary community that showcases rural writers reading in rural spaces for a community of folks who are hungry for writing that pushes past the pastoral and apple pie aesthetic (although we are fond of apples, pie, sheep, and the like). Typically, our events are held in rural spaces such a barns, river edges, farms, and butterfly sanctuaries. We bring iconic writers and poets such as D.A. Powell, Jacques Rancourt, Manjula Martin, and Eirinie Carson to audiences who would not usually have access to them (or at least would have to drive to SF), and not only that, we do so with a bit of mystery. Audience members register for our events without knowing where the location will be, and they are emailed directions the night prior. Some of our events are no-talking events; imagine a group of people filtering into a barn with only the sound of thrush singing. We ask participants not to take photos and to turn their phones off if possible, harkening back to a time when we were more present to ourselves and the people around us. Events are carefully curated to feel like experiences, intimate and welcoming, magical and accessible. As you can imagine, we love word-of-mouth outreach. We have an IG account where we post events, and from there, people share them with people who might be interested. Last summer, we invested in a few posters and flyers. Our events are completely free, and so far, every single one has been filled to capacity. Kelly Gray Books & Barns https://www.instagram.com/booksandbarns_aliterarything/ United States San Francisco, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/sf tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/351832 2025-06-09T00:00:00Z 2025-06-10T01:32:00Z On Saturday 6/21/25, Central Floridians will see fun and unique musical performances take place across their community. It might be a string quartet playing in a grocery store, or a kazoo choir performing in a storefront, or a singer-songwriter on the steps of the Orange County Administration Building, all day and all for free. Dozens of cities across the United States (and several countries around the globe!) celebrate Make Music Day annually on June 21st, and this year, we want Orange County to experience the joy of free live music throughout the community, too! Orange County will celebrate its inaugural Make Music Day in 2025, with musical performances at the Orange County Administration Center, the Orange County Multicultural Center, and at private businesses throughout the County (such as Bynx Coffee and Maxine’s on Shine.) Anyone can sign up to host a performance, or to give a musical performance, so long as it is free to attend. An online website provides “matchmaking” services to connect musicians and host locations to make the process easy – that same website also lists all of the performances happening so residents and visitors can check out free music in their community! United Arts of Central Florida and Orange County’s Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs will work together to support the celebration. United Arts serves as the partner of record, and the Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs staff maintains the Make Music Day website and matchmaking website required to connect artists with host venues. Both organizations will promote the celebration to artists, venues, and audiences. In its inaugural year, Make Music Orange County will have approximately one dozen performances at four host locations throughout Orange County, with expectations to grow and expand in 2026 and beyond. Jennifer Evins A Day of Free Music all Around Orange County https://www.makemusicday.org/orangecounty/listings/artists United States Orlando, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/orlando tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/334365 2025-06-06T00:00:00Z 2025-06-06T17:00:05Z Every year from June through to September, there is a high risk of Nyungwe forest in Rwanda catching fire. These fires are due to wild honey hunters .To avoid these fires, the wild honey hunters can be identified and can be helped to start a beekeeping project around the Nyungwe buffer zone. They can be equipped with material necessary for beekeeping and honey harvesting, They also need to be educated about the importance of the natural forest to their community, to the country and the whole world at large. Eddy Rangira Beekeeping to preserve natural forests http://www.loverwandainitiative.org.rw Worldwide Conservation and Climate https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/conservationandclimate tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/341451 2025-06-06T00:00:00Z 2025-06-06T16:59:18Z The HungreeApp is a multilingual, real-time platform that redistributes surplus edible food from individuals, restaurants, and businesses to nearby people—cutting methane emissions, reducing hunger, and reconnecting communities. Our platform empowers neighborhoods to form public or private “Villages”—hyperlocal food-sharing networks where users can offer, request, or sponsor food. With a tap, waste becomes relief, and relief builds resilience. We’ll use this grant to supercharge our conservation-focused tools. We’re expanding into high-waste cities like Lagos, Nairobi, and several in California—supporting new Villages with food rescue campaigns, compost education, and local events. We’re launching app-based sustainability challenges and translating our climate literacy content into underserved languages. We’ll also grow our HungreeFreeWorld initiative—a global movement mobilizing volunteers to host zero-waste events, deliver food, and build circular communities. In 2024, we hosted HungreesGiving events in Denver and Colombia, distributing hundreds of meals and sparking regional action. Now, with your support, we’ll scale that impact. Every meal claimed on HungreeApp prevents emissions and builds trust. Every listing conserves natural resources and builds climate justice. Our goal? Zero edible food waste. Thriving ecosystems. Stronger communities—powered by compassion and tech. This effort aligns with UN SDGs—Zero Hunger, Climate Action, and Responsible Consumption. We're in talks with governments and schools to adopt the app as a climate tool. We’ll track our expansion with stories and data to shape future research and policy on food systems and sustainability. John Akinboyewa The HungreeApp:Zero Food Waste/Feeding Communities http://www.thehungreeapp.com Worldwide Conservation and Climate https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/conservationandclimate tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/351367 2025-06-04T00:00:00Z 2025-06-04T11:37:14Z A one-day wellness experience designed for Black women in Sydney. The event offers rest, reflection, and reconnection through yoga, guided conversation, sound healing, and community-building. It features Black women facilitators and spotlights wellness education rooted in cultural relevance. We’ve hosted it successfully once and would love to run another in a different part of Sydney, expanding our reach. Wellness spaces often lack cultural safety and representation. This project offers a space where Black women feel seen, safe, and celebrated — with programming designed specifically for their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. It includes sessions with Black women experts, like a nutritionist/doctor speaking on gut health and hormones, supporting a holistic approach to wellness. The day also uplifts local Black practitioners and fosters real community connection. This event will directly support around 25 Black women in Sydney through culturally safe, accessible wellness programming. It supports long-term community wellbeing, empowers women with knowledge about their bodies and health, and strengthens a growing network of Black-led wellness practitioners. The format is repeatable, with future events exploring other key topics like mental health, menopause, and intergenerational healing. Annette Cole Amplify Black Women – Wellness Day Series http://www.abwsydau.org Australia Sydney https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/sydney tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/343133 2025-06-04T00:00:00Z 2025-06-05T21:10:16Z RETUNE operates 5 days a week Monday to Friday, to work with 28 attendees over the year to teach fine woodworking of stringed instrument construction and repair, CNC machine software and use, as well as reclaiming old unused hand tools specific to the workshop environment. RETUNES motto (Reclaim your Potential) is twofold. Reclaiming and reusing wood and tools and reclaiming and reusing the individual’s potential To reclaim and reuse these tools as an example of RETUNES motto (Reclaim your Potential) this engages the personal development plan for each participant done in weekly stages with the learning manual. Our target groups are Veterans/Ex-service personnel, Adult Autistic, Long term DWP and those who identify as severely isolated. We are based in Easterhouse, one of Glasgow’s most deprived communities and the bulk of our current participants are drawn from the local area We help to address individual issues who suffer isolation that are affected with PTSD and many others, with needs ranging from mental health diagnosis, physical disabilities to family breakdown. we operate 2 specific manuals for attendees, one is the learning manual that takes participants on weekly tasks towards learning skills and constructing their instruments, the other is a personal development manual that each person completes on a monthly basis on areas of their lives and issues, where these have been addressed and what they have identified as benefiting or blocking a move on process. We utilise the ‘Cycle of Change’ model a CBT model, is a talking therapy that can help individuals manage their problems by changing the way they think and behave utilising the creative process, It's most commonly used to treat anxiety and depression, but can be useful for other mental and physical health problems. In the project this serves to boost individual social skills, confidence, direction, decrease isolation, improve a sense of wellbeing, and contribute to greater autonomy and independence, David McHarg Reclaim Your Potential https://www.facebook.com/theretuneproject United Kingdom Glasgow https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/glasgow tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/351173 2025-06-02T00:00:00Z 2025-06-03T01:09:06Z WaterWalkers” is a community-based mini-initiative that introduces underserved youth to water conservation and personal development through hands-on water education and guided weekend shoreline walks. This innovative program combines physical activity walking alongside Nairobi river, environmental learning (on-site water quality demos and clean-ups), and youth mentorship. It is designed to build knowledge, confidence, and care for our most precious resource — water. It’s simple but powerful: Walking a river trail with a guide and peers, picking up trash, testing water quality, and talking about life. It connects people, nature, and purpose: Youth connect with their environment and learn the importance of clean water, teamwork, leadership, and responsibility. It’s fun and educational: We blend STEM learning (water pH testing, litter tracking) with creative expression (journals, art from reclaimed waste). It will benefit 30–50 local youth (ages 10–17) from underserved neighborhoods Esther Misente Maangi WaterWalkers http://periodpride.org Worldwide On the Water https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/onthewater tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/343162 2025-05-31T00:00:00Z 2025-06-27T01:14:34Z May’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to Nieve Xiao to bring young musicians together with seniors through [Sound of Life] (http://soundoflife.ca). “Sound of Life,” explains Nieve, “is a group of youth musicians from across Ottawa bringing music and joy into retirement homes. We have over 50 volunteers and are entirely organized and run by our board of seven high school students.” “Our organization brings about intergenerational learning and interaction,” she continues, “fuelling connection across the community. Music has also been shown to have an immense benefit to dementia and other memory related illnesses that come with old age.” “I am in grade 11 at Lisgar Collegiate Institute and have volunteered in retirement homes for three years,” she says. “I have had many interactions with people with dementia or forms of it, and have realized the need for adaptive therapies to aid them in their wellbeing. As an avid musician and two-time provincial finalist in piano, I decided to bring two aspects of my life together to found Sound of Life.” Nieve and the team plan to use the award to build homemade instruments to give to residents so they can play along during performances. Nieve Xiao Sound of Life http://soundoflife.ca Canada Ottawa https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/ottawa tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/346615 2025-05-31T00:00:00Z 2025-06-09T21:26:13Z Scoliosis patients, consisting of 6-9 million people nationally, have unusually curved spines that, alongside visible deformity, may cause arthritis, disrupted breathing, and other health issues. The most vulnerable population are young girls, who are disproportionately affected by juvenile idiopathic scoliosis. Unfortunately, as a patient myself, I experienced the stigma and isolation often associated with deformity. I started ScoliPoly to address the disjointed nature of the scoliosis community. Our nonprofit initiative is dedicated to demystifying scoliosis and challenging societal stigmas through educational resources, awareness campaigns, and outreach. Currently operating in New Jersey, New York, and two international locations, ScoliPoly’s primary function is to provide informational resources to schools, hospitals, and other youth venues in the chapter area. We are unique in providing a community that is not only catered towards a specific disease and its variations, but also reaches out directly to youth groups, rather than being limited to individual patients. Our free booklets describe the treatment, symptoms, and implications of scoliosis. Having now distributed over 5,000, I’m thrilled with the impact ScoliPoly has made on girls like me. Our social media, which includes fun facts about scoliosis and Q&A videos with scoliosis professionals, has already reached over 10,000 in views and engagement. We also offer a blog for youth authors (17 unique publications) and an online “wardrobe” of brace-friendly outfit recommendations (24 contributions). The ScoliPoly community of sympathetic and inclusive patients is now, to my immense pride, the exact type of environment I would have thrived in as a newly diagnosed preteen. As we reach out to more locations across our chapter areas, we hope to expand our community of ~15 partnering schools, hospitals, and youth centers. **What our grantee is saying:** Receiving the Awesome Disability grant will be no doubt transformative for my project and team. Working out of a small budget, yet remaining committed to providing free access to our resources, ScoliPoly has often struggled to balance the needs of scoliotic community members with our financial limitations. Despite forming partnerships with schools and hospitals in our chapter areas, said limitations have placed delays on our work with them at the expense of thousands of children that lack the information necessary to accurately assess their back health. A single Awesome grant, however, can expand our educational services to up to 5,000 more children. We’re so excited to use Awesome’s generous award to produce new informational pamphlets, streamline our online resources, and reach out to our community’s most vulnerable. The ScoliPoly team is incredibly grateful for the Foundation’s support! Eve Parrott ScoliPoly https://www.scolipoly.com Worldwide Disability https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/disability tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/341402 2025-05-31T00:00:00Z 2025-06-09T20:08:21Z We're pleased to announce that our May grant has been awarded to the Soap Box Derby team at PS 72 in the Bronx. Did you know that NYC is home to an active and growing Soap Box Derby community? 45 schools participated in this year's local competition, with the car from PS 72 coming in 4th place. Students at the school participate twice a week in their after school program, learning how to build their cars and preparing for competition. Run out of the school's STEAM maker space, the program brings in kids who might not otherwise be interested in their other after school offerings. In their own words: _We're a team of elementary school students from PS 72 in the Bronx preparing for our 2025–2026 Soap Box Derby season! We’ll be using the Awesome NYC grant to purchase team uniforms and help fund a special field trip to a go-kart facility. Since we’re a city school with very limited space, our last team practiced driving in the aisle of the auditorium! The trip will give students a safe and fun way to get a feel for driving before race day._ _Want to support or participate with our team?_ * _Sponsor our team financially_ * _Donate items for our race day event_ * _Come out to cheer us on in person!_ _More information is available on our [team website](https://sites.google.com/schools.nyc.gov/ps-72x-steam-program/soap-box-derby-team?authuser=0) and check out our Grants & Sponsorship page on the site for specific ways to contribute or get involved._ This was only the second year of Soap Box at PS 72 (which has now grown to 2 cars), and we can't wait to see how the program continues to grow in the future. Marla Schneider Soap Box Derby Race https://sites.google.com/schools.nyc.gov/ps-72x-steam-program/soap-box-derby-team?authuser=0 United States New York City, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/nyc tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/349161 2025-05-31T00:00:00Z 2025-06-07T14:13:04Z My Big Fat Pop Up (MBFP) was born out of a shared passion between my sister and I to support small, BIPOC, and women-owned businesses through intentional shopping and community. What started as a personal mission quickly became a vibrant platform for over 400 local brands—from fashion and beauty to home, food and lifestyle—connecting them with loyal customers through curated pop-up events and digital content. We’ve hosted seven events with a high vendor return rate and thousands of attendees. Our goal is always to drive sustainability by celebrating emerging brands, connect young entrepreneurs and generate much needed revenue for local companies. The Awesome Foundation grant will fund the development and launch of our official website and expanding our social media presence, to help us host more curated pop-ups with small and medium enterprises in Toronto. Kanmali Osode My Big Fat Pop Up Canada Toronto https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/toronto tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/345418 2025-05-31T00:00:00Z 2025-06-08T17:49:33Z We are seeking funding to support a week of hands-on science workshops for children in Liverpool. The workshops will be run by Cambridge Hands-On Science (CHaOS), a student-run science outreach group from the University of Cambridge. Every summer, CHaOS takes a van full of exciting science experiments and a team of friendly volunteers around the country to deliver workshops to children from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in STEM, with the goal of showing them that science is interesting, fun and important! This year, CHaOS is planning to visit Liverpool from July 26 to August 1 to run a week of science workshops in local libraries. The workshops will feature around fourteen hands-on experiments, each with a demonstrator. The families will be able to move between the experiments, having a go at the hands-on aspects and discussing the science with the demonstrators. The experiments come from across STEM, and some of the most popular ones include a collection of animal skulls, making mini explosions using lemon juice and bicarb of soda, and building a bridge that the children can walk across. CHaOS aims to widen participation in STEM by providing children with exciting STEM experiences and the opportunity to talk to real scientists (our demonstrators), thus encouraging them to continue to study STEM and aspire to a career in STEM, and challenging stereotypes around what a scientist looks like. We reach children from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in STEM by targeting areas with low progression to tertiary education. The workshops are free for families to attend. We aim to reach 1000 people across seven events with a budget of £2500, meaning the project will cost only £2.50 per person reached. Our largest expenses come from catering for, transporting and accommodating our volunteers. As part of our mission to disprove stereotypes around STEM, we encourage diversity in our volunteering body by covering all costs associated with volunteering. Jessica Trevelyan Hands-On Science in Liverpool http://chaosscience.org.uk United Kingdom Liverpool https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/liverpool tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/346845 2025-05-31T00:00:00Z 2025-06-08T17:49:23Z BRASSIC. is a self published magazine, showcasing the richness of Northern culture and talent, based and operating in Liverpool. The magazine focuses primarily on Northern cities and towns, covering topics of culture in these places, and underground creatives, with the intention to platform and spark conversation. We want BRASSIC. to be able to open opportunities up for everyone involved; our features, interviewees, writers, photographers, and any other contributors we have, and to get people to know the talent in and around the North. With us only just starting, this has been primarily Liverpool based so far, and will continue like that whilst we grow our audience. For each issue, we are also aiming to throw a launch party. These parties exhibit the work put into the magazine, such as work of our artist profiles, so people are able to get an idea of what is in the magazine if they can't afford the price (£15). With us being a magazine and not event/promoters, we aim to keep these launch parties free and accessible. These will continue to be in Liverpool, and also act as good networking events for other creatives. As we are a publication that aspires to platform creatives, we also want to to do that through being able to pay our writers and photographers, as we understand when it comes to working on creative projects that these people often don't get paid (including us). After our very successful Issue 01, where we were lucky enough to break even and reimburse ourselves after selling out, we were left with a small remainder to put into our second issue. With us both working in hospitality jobs, neither of us are in a financial position to not reimburse ourselves. BRASSIC. is a project we want to continue with and see how far we can take it, but for us currently, the financial aspect is our biggest issue. Bebe Lynch-Platt BRASSIC. https://brassicmagazine.bigcartel.com United Kingdom Liverpool https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/liverpool tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/338018 2025-05-30T00:00:00Z 2025-06-17T19:38:25Z We’re launching Build & Ride, a free 4-week beginner road cycling program at Esquina Bicycle Shop in Boyle Heights, LA. This project is designed to empower new and hesitant riders—especially women, LGBTQ+ folks, and BIPOC community members—through supportive, themed group rides that focus on safety, confidence, and connection. Each week, we’ll gather at Esquina for a guided ride that includes a short workshop on basic bike maintenance (like fixing a flat or adjusting brakes), a group ride through local streets or bike paths, and a post-ride hangout with snacks, music, and community-building activities. The goal is to create a fun, inclusive space where people can build physical and emotional confidence while moving through their city on two wheels. Esquina is more than a bike shop—we’re a grassroots hub where art, bikes, and community intersect. This project is an extension of our mission: to make cycling more accessible and joyful, and to use mobility as a tool for liberation, health, and local pride. With this program, we’ll help demystify cycling for beginners, create safer streets through education, and foster a growing network of local riders who feel confident showing up for themselves and their community. Alberto Build & Ride: Beginner Road Cycling Series http://www.esquina.la United States Los Angeles, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/los-angeles tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/345429 2025-05-29T00:00:00Z 2025-05-30T02:05:40Z We work at GHS in the sub-separate therapeutic program known as Anchor. In Anchor we have established a positive behavior incentive system where students can earn tickets based on their behavior and productivity during class time to use as a currency for rewards. In the math class we use what is called Anchor Bank and Trust as a way for students to learn about real life financial applications such as savings and interest. With the tickets earned students can shop from a list of rewards. Many of the rewards are physical items that the staff purchases out of our own pockets. Examples of these items are snacks, erasable pens, fidgets or even lunch purchased from a local restaurant. Cia Dill and Jess Delisi Anchor Bank and Trust https://sites.google.com/gloucesterschools.com/anchor/home United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/345067 2025-05-28T00:00:00Z 2025-06-08T13:04:11Z The idea behind the scout loop trail is to create a sign and blazing system for a trail loop already present in Georgetown rally State Forest. This loop could be used for every day activities like walking, biking, or maybe even cross country skiing. A map of the trail loop will also be uploaded online making it easy to navigate for everyone who uses it. Once signage is put up and blazes are painted, it will be one of the three trails systems in Georgetown rally that have a marking and signage system other than Pingree Farm Road and the Bay circuit trail. Signage will of a Colorcore sign at the entrance to the loop attached to a 4 x 4 x 2 wood post put into the forest floor. This sign will contain information about forks as well as distances, a map of the loop, and blaze colors. Blazes will be attached every few hundred feet as a means of navigating the trails and indicating directions that need to be heeded at forks. Noah Shupenko The Scout Loop, Trail United States Georgetown, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/georgetown tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/347504 2025-05-28T00:00:00Z 2025-06-08T13:03:54Z Georgetown Parks and Recreation with the Georgetown Fire Department are requesting grant funding to support the purchase of an AED (Automatic Electronic Defibrillator) for either American Legion Park or East Main Street Soccer Fields. This will enhance Georgetown with its existing Heart Town Status. Michael W. Donahue AED For Parks and Recreation http://N/A United States Georgetown, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/georgetown tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/347103 2025-05-28T00:00:00Z 2025-05-31T13:32:57Z The Rhody "Art-Cade" Arcade Cabinet will serve as a platform for showcasing games made by local creators. This half-size, bar-top style arcade cabinet will be used at community events, art shows, and game expos to highlight the work of independent game developers and creatives in the Providence area. This arcade machine is a custom design and built for portability and inclusive access. The half-sized cabinet can be placed on a a height adjustable base to enable those with different heights to engage with the games. By making the cabinet compact and mobile, our group can bring it into a wide variety of public spaces and share the creativity of our community with different audiences. One extra component is an accessibility device that I’ve been designing for games, which will allows players to use QR codes to load their preferred accessibility settings if the game supports it. This device on a shared cabinet should encourage developers to design games with accessibility features, for example colorblindness settings, motion sickness reduction options, or other player accommodations. This initiative is being led by the Rhody Art-Cade, a collective of local game developers and artists who meet regularly to share works-in-progress, host game jams, and support each other in creative exploration. The cabinets’ fabrication process and design will be documented and freely available to all. Robin Lloyd-Miller Rhody "Art-Cade" Arcade Cabinet https://surreality.games United States Rhode Island https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/rhodeisland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/342376 2025-05-27T00:00:00Z 2025-05-28T16:57:46Z Our fourth year of Cabinet of Curiosity's Pedal-Powered Programming. 2025's interactive event is called KAZOOZAPALOOZA: The Black Man from Macon. The event will include an original spectacle Pedal-Powered device with narrative images painted on a giant 100-foot scroll attached to a bike that someone rides to make the pictures travel. The story is accompanied by original sung by Lynne Jordan. The bike-powered panoramic scroll is a spectacle item engineered by students of Cabinet of Curiosity's unique School of Celebration. The production will play for free, outdoors, for children to persons of age in underserved communities of color. The event is almost entirely visual and includes a musical workshop and a free coloring book about engineering hope. Our event is currently funded to perform 4 times in public parks for free - Boler Park (Homan Square), Marquette Park (South Chicago), 3636 Iron Street (McKinley Park), and Verti Port (Pilsen). This is the third year we have been invited to return to these communities by Alder people, community leaders, neighborhood stakeholders and The Chicago Park District. We focused our first programming years on these targeted communities to generate trust and establish collaboration opportunities. Our staff, board, partners, and collective of artists are confident we can begin to build equally robust and meaningful partnerships with three new, additional communities. The event aims to offer guests free kazoos, musical workshops, and paid opportunities to community members to work on the event. The event is interactive and celebrates the life of an underrecognized black man, Alabama Vest, the inventor of the Kazoo. Collaborators include Lynne Jordan, Homan Square Artist in Residence Bandon Boler, poet Samarem Diaz-Negrete, painter Mandy Newman Cobb, the School of the Art Institute, the Chicago Park District, the Homan Square Neighborhood Association, and Working Bikes The Awesome Foundation will provide funds for one new neighborhood with equally great cultural and employment needs- West Garfield Park. Frank Maugeri The Black Man from Macon https://www.cocechicago.com United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/350668 2025-05-26T00:00:00Z 2025-05-26T12:19:00Z Awesome Gloucester proudly presents "Dory at Sunset," the eighth mural in our ongoing series celebrating the maritime heritage and community spirit that defines our city. This stunning piece captures Jimmy Tarantino and Stephanie Palazola O'Neil rowing their traditional wooden dory against one of Gloucester's legendary sunsets. Artist Josh Falk transforms this peaceful evening scene, originally photographed by Stephanie Ragusa, into a large-scale work that speaks to our coastal identity. The mural depicts brilliant layers of orange and coral clouds reflected in calm harbor waters, with two silhouetted figures whose quiet journey connects past and present. The golden light dancing across the water's surface captures the timeless relationship between our community and the sea. Located on the exterior wall of the Pilot House, this artwork continues our mission to enhance public spaces while honoring local stories. Each of our eight murals tells a different chapter of Gloucester's narrative, but "Dory at Sunset" may be our most intimate - a reminder that our maritime culture lives in everyday moments when residents connect with these waters. The project exemplifies the collaborative spirit that drives our work. From Stephanie Ragusa's eye for capturing the perfect moment, to Jimmy and Stephanie's willingness to share their experience, to local property owners' support, this mural represents community investment in our shared visual landscape. This project was made possible through the generous financial support of Greg Bover, Susan Coviello, Rick Doucette, Stefan Edick, Shawn Henry, Walt Kolenda, Julie Lafontaine, Kerry McKenna, Suzi Natti, MJ Powers, Sue Salem, and Sal Zerilli. "Dory at Sunset" joins our growing collection of public art celebrating both Gloucester's storied past and vibrant present, ensuring that traditions connecting us to the sea remain visible reminders of who we are. Salvatore Zerilli The Dory at Sunset Mural United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/334057 2025-05-22T00:00:00Z 2025-05-23T08:11:48Z Պատկերացնենք լաբորատորիա-արտադրամաս, որտեղ աշխատում են շոկոլադագործ-տեխնոլոգները։ Շոկոլադե Լաբորատորիա ծրագիրը նախատեսված է դեռահասների համար, ովքեր ցանկանում են սովորել սննդի տեխնոլոգիա, ստեղծագործել, իրականացնել համտեսներ և գրել իրենց ստեղծագործության համար վաճառքի պլան։ Ծրագիրը ոչ միայն շոկոլադի պատրաստման դաս է, այլ մի ամբողջ ուսումնական փորձառություն, որի ընթացքում դեռահասները կներկայանան որպես շոկոլադագործներ։ Կրթական ծրագրում դեռահասները կսովորեն սննդի քիմիա և ֆիզքիմիա, պատկերացում կազմելու համար շոկոլադի հալման, խտացման և համադրությունների մասին։ Մասնակիցները կփորձարկեն տարբեր բաղադրիչների համադրություններ՝ ստեղծելով իրենց յուրահատուկ շոկոլադը։ Ծրագրի նպատակն է ապացուցել, որ սովորելը կարող է լինել ոչ միայն օգտակար, այլև համեղ։ Այս կերպ դեռահասների շրջանում կառաջացնենք հետաքրքրությույուն սննդի արդյունաբերության, այդքան «վախենալու» քիմիայի և բիզնես գաղափարների նկատմամբ։ Երկօրյա դասընթացը կիրականացվի երկու փուլով։ Առաջին օրը մասնակիցները ձեռք կբերեն շոկոլադագործության մասին տեղեկատվություն, կգրեն թե ինչն է լինելու իրենց առաջին արտադրանքը, կկազմեն բաղադրագիր։ Երկրորդ օրը ըստ իրենց նախագծած բաղադրագրի և ստացած գիտելիքների կպատրաստեն շոկոլադները։ Մասնակիցներ՝ 10-12հոգի (15-17 տարեկան դպրոցականներ)։ Մանակիցները կընտրվեն ըստ հարցազրույցի կամ մոտիվացիոն նամակի, այս կերպ կբարձրացնենք ծրագրի հանդեպ լրջությունը։ Մարիամ Միքայելյան #revival Շոկոլադե լաբորատորիա Armenia Yerevan https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/yerevan tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/340951 2025-05-22T00:00:00Z 2025-05-23T08:02:03Z We’re turning an abandoned concrete pool in a residential courtyard in Yerevan, Armenia, into a vibrant urban eco-garden — a green space designed by and for the community. Instead of a lifeless concrete structure, we imagine raised vegetable beds, vertical greenery, and soft garden paths. There will be a children’s garden where kids can grow their first carrots, a herbal tea corner for elderly neighbors to enjoy local mint and thyme, and a compost zone that teaches zero-waste habits. This isn’t just a garden — it’s a community project that brings people together, encourages sustainable living, and shows how underused urban spaces can be transformed into something joyful, healing, and alive. It’s also a pilot project that, if successful, can be replicated in other courtyards across Yerevan. The design is simple, eco-friendly, and co-created with local residents. We’ll use affordable, sustainable materials and contribute volunteer time to bring it to life. This space will grow not just plants — but community, connection, and pride. Artur Urban Garden: A Community Oasis in Yerevan Armenia Yerevan https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/yerevan tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/336494 2025-05-21T00:00:00Z 2025-05-22T01:36:36Z Dragon Dreaming team on Turtle Island, the United States, has been working collaboratively since 2019. We have several core members - Renato and Lynda, Svetlana, Jill, Mary Ann, and Kathleen. We are deeply committed to creating projects related to community building, art, permaculture and education. As a team, we've been spreading dragon dreaming while traveling around the country. Last year three of us, Jill, Renato, and Svetlana attended the dragon dreaming workshop in Estonia. Several of us want to join the transformational workshop in Estonia in July of 2025. We are asking as a group for a grant for our traveling fund so that we can continue traveling to dragon dreaming events and projects to support, learn, and grow. **How I will use the money:** Jill, Svetlana with her partner Sara will participate and help out at Dragon Dreaming gatherings in Estonia and France Estonia: https://gaiaakadeemia.ee/en/education-economics-as-if-people-and-planet-mattered/ France: https://revedudragon.org/summer-camp-2025 **A little about me:** Svetlana builds communities in many different contexts, seasonal celebrations, community circles, parent support groups, family constellations, and non-violent communication practice. Originally from Moldova, she lived in NYC for 19 years and has been enjoying traveling with purpose and integrating her travels into her life and how she shows up in the world. Jill Olesker, a native New Yorker, is a seasoned storyteller, story seeker, and adventurer. She is working on Water Stories project gathering oral histories and giving Waters a voice. She has always loved working with children. **Apart from the money, how else can the broader Dragon Dreaming community help you?** It would be helpful to find housing with the local dragon dreamers while we're at the workshops to continue developing the connection and mutual support that has already started. *Amount funded:* US$ 1200 Svetlana Zabolotnaia Turtle Island Dragon Dreaming Travel Fund Worldwide Dragon Dreaming https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/dragondreaming tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/341551 2025-05-20T00:00:00Z 2025-06-17T19:18:27Z Hawaiʻi’s youth mental health crisis is urgent. Spill The Tea Cafe was founded to meet that crisis head-on by creating safe, affirming spaces where LGBTQ+ and BIPOC youth can access free mental health support without fear of judgment. Our unique model blends clinical care, leadership development, and peer mentorship, making mental health care approachable, empowering, and youth-driven. Our project, Youth-Led Mental Health Pop-Up Series: Healing Oʻahu, One Cup at a Time, will bring this model into neighborhoods across Oʻahu. Led by youth for youth, each pop-up event will offer free therapy check-ins, peer support circles, resilience-building workshops, and leadership activities—all centered around creating visible, joyful spaces for healing. Teens will serve free boba tea, facilitate community conversations, and distribute self-care kits, breaking down barriers to mental health support while building connection and belonging. What makes Spill The Tea Cafe different is that we don’t just provide therapy — we build a pipeline of future mental health leaders. We train local students, peer mentors, and interns to develop clinical skills, leadership capacity, and self-confidence, addressing Hawaiʻi’s critical shortage of mental health providers from the ground up. Our teens aren’t just recipients of care—they are active healers, creators, and change agents. The pop-up series will launch this youth-powered movement into new communities, particularly in areas where traditional mental health services are scarce. By showing up in parks and gathering spaces with open arms (and open minds), we make it easy for teens to connect, share, and heal without stigma. We envision every pop-up as a spark—igniting hope, community, and a ripple effect of healing across the island. With your support, we can activate youth leaders, expand access to free therapy, and transform how mental health care is delivered across Oʻahu—one cup, one conversation, and one connection at a time. Haylin A Dennison Youth-Led Mental Health+ Wellness Pop-Up Series: https://www.spilltheteacafe.org/ United States Oahu, HI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/oahu tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/342397 2025-05-19T00:00:00Z 2025-06-16T18:19:54Z The Magic Yarn Project aims to make soft yarn wigs for children going through cancer, alopecia or any other type of hair loss. These character wigs or beanies invite children into the world of imagination and play during difficult times. Wigs are always free for the families who receive them. With the price of yarn skyrocketing, the Pittsburgh chapter of the Magic Yarn Project plans to buy many skeins of yarn to help more affected families. Jessica Ash Magic Yarn Project http://www.themagicyarnproject.com United States Pittsburgh, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/pittsburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/347125 2025-05-19T00:00:00Z 2025-05-22T12:10:26Z Ward 7 Juneteenth Parade – A Celebration of Freedom, Culture, and Community The Ward 7 Juneteenth Parade is Washington, D.C.’s first official Juneteenth parade, created to honor the historic significance of June 19, 1865—when the last enslaved African Americans were informed of their freedom—and to celebrate the strength, pride, and cultural richness of communities in Ward 7 and throughout the District. This community-led event brings the streets of Ward 7 to life with music, movement, and shared purpose. It features a lively procession of marching bands, youth dance teams, community groups, local artists, and cultural organizations—each one contributing to a joyful, meaningful expression of history and hope. It’s a moment to honor the past while celebrating the present-day spirit and resilience of D.C.’s Black communities. The celebration doesn’t stop with the parade. A community festival follows, with live performances, food vendors, local artisans, and family-friendly activities. Residents can connect with local service providers, learn about community resources, and enjoy a day designed to uplift, educate, and unite. Organized by Ward 7 residents and supported by a range of local partners, the parade centers the voices and leadership of the community. It promotes civic pride, encourages cross-neighborhood connection, and provides a platform for local talent and culture to shine. The Ward 7 Juneteenth Parade is more than an event—it’s the beginning of a new tradition. It reflects the heart of Ward 7: vibrant, proud, and deeply rooted in history. With each drumbeat and dance step, it brings people together to reflect, celebrate, and look forward—together. Toya S Carmichael Ward 7 Juneteenth Parade http://www.ward7jpc.com United States Washington, DC https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/dc tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/335446 2025-05-18T00:00:00Z 2025-05-19T15:55:26Z The Coastal Watershed Council (CWC) preserves and protects coastal watersheds by strengthening the connection between the historically underserved and diverse residents who live along the San Lorenzo River and this critical natural resource in Santa Cruz, CA. CWC’s River Stewards Program, developed for and by the unhoused community, engages individuals experiencing homelessness in education, stewardship, and outdoor experiences as part of their path out of homelessness. A $1,000 gift from the Santa Cruz Awesome Foundation will provide one year's worth of native plant seeds that will be used by the River Stewards participants to increase biodiversity along the lower San Lorenzo River. Native plant seeds are collected from May to September and then planted along the river from October to February each year. By giving a gift now, you'll launch (and fully fund) our native seed collection for the year and ensure that the River Stewards have a biodiverse array of native plant seeds to plant this fall. Native plants and seeds are incredibly important to the river ecosystem because native plants typically support 10-50 times more insect species than non-native plants and as such, they are the foundation of a thriving river ecosystem. Laurie Egan River Stewards https://coastal-watershed.org/downtown-streets-team-members-become-successful-river-stewards/ United States Santa Cruz, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/santacruz tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/343745 2025-05-15T00:00:00Z 2025-05-16T12:34:50Z The Rideau Heights Community has the highest density of children living in low income homes. In the summer there is little free programming for our youth and most is on a registration basis. Last year we offered free drop in soccer for youth at Shannon Park and it was a huge success. We were able to waive the field fees and a few sundries. We used pylons for goals and made do with what we had. The youth that attended developed not only soccer skills but made new friends and developed conflict resolution skills as well as learning a positive outlet for their energies. Spencer Lanthier Rideau Heights Youth Soccer http://KCHC.ca Canada Kingston https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/kingston-on tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/345395 2025-05-15T00:00:00Z 2025-06-01T17:46:26Z Eid al-Adha is one of two annual Muslim holidays that commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family, peace be upon them, and Muslims all over the world will be celebrating this special day on June 7th this year. Eid translates to 'festival' in the Arabic language, and it is a time to come together. Our diverse Fargo-Moorhead community is eagely awaiting Eid as well, so we plan to host a fun-filled festival for families, particularly for the younger generation, which otherwise might not have opportunities to come together and experience Eid festivals in this region. To make it a memorable and exciting day for kids, we plan to have a plenty of activities at the event, such as henna, bouncy houses, face painting, and cookie decorating to list a few. Along with various activities, we will also have food and treats available for guests to enjoy. The goal is to bring the local Muslim community (and anyone else that might wish to attend) together, enjoy food, and have the opportunity to foster roots and memories. Enisa Sabovic Fargo-Moorhead Eid Festival United States Cass Clay https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/cassclay tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/342379 2025-05-14T00:00:00Z 2025-06-05T16:49:48Z We are hoping to win to support the restocking of the snack stations at our two elementary schools, where every child has access to nutritious snacks throughout the day. These stations—located in the nurse’s office (Winthrop) or at the front desk (Doyon)—serve a dual purpose: they are not only a source of healthy fuel for growing bodies, but also a quiet, supportive space where students can take a break, self-regulate, and return to the classroom more focused and ready to learn. This isn’t just about snacks—it’s about well-being. There isn’t a single student who hasn’t benefited from these stations. Whether it’s a child who didn’t have time for breakfast, a student with extra energy who needs to step out and regroup, or someone just needing a quick moment of care and comfort, the snack station is always there. The challenge is that the demand is constant, and the supply often falls short. At Doyon Elementary, in particular, the burden of keeping the station stocked frequently falls on the shoulders of parents. Our goal is to eliminate that strain and ensure that all children—regardless of background or circumstance—have reliable access to healthy options when they need them most. With your support, we can keep these snack stations full of nutritious, kid-approved choices and continue to create small but powerful moments of care that make a big difference in our school community. Nola Constant Little Bites, Big Impact at Doyon & Winthrop United States Ipswich, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/ipswich tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/346393 2025-05-14T00:00:00Z 2025-06-05T16:49:23Z This summer, I want to prevent kids from using their iPads or phones all the time. My idea is to create boxes with fun activities that will be fun for kids to use. I want to help kids use their imagination because, as I get older, I don't want to go to summer camp, so I don't know what to do. So I thought, why not make boxes of fun activities?!!! The boxes that I will make will all have a theme for different interests. For example, I will make a box for a person who likes to play card and board games or a box for someone who likes to make things such as clay sculptures or paintings. I would like to make about 20-25 of these boxes. I think that we could distribute them at the library and town hall at the beginning of the summer. I would like to aim for ages 8-11. Phoebe Lawrence Anti-Boredom Boxes http://N/A United States Ipswich, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/ipswich tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/346819 2025-05-14T00:00:00Z 2025-06-05T16:48:45Z My idea is to create a Kindness Rock Snake—a long line of painted rocks shaped like a snake—right across from the library in the garden. People can walk by, take a rock that makes them smile, but only if they replace it with one they decorate themselves! To make it easy and fun, I want to have a little weather-safe box with acrylic markers and blank rocks so anyone can sit down and create something kind or beautiful. You don’t usually bring paper and pens when you’re outside, but this would give people a chance to be artistic right in nature—and feel good while doing it! It would help people spread kindness, use their creativity, and feel more connected to each other and our town. One small rock can make someone’s day! Layla Murdoch & mom Nikki Murdoch Kindness Rock Snake in the Garden United States Ipswich, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/ipswich