tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:/hy/projects?page=4 2024-12-10T02:54:43Z tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/301094 2024-12-09T00:00:00Z 2024-12-10T02:54:43Z On December 21, a group of volunteers from Austin Mutual Aid and Carol’s Kindness will fill a room at the Gus Garcia Recreation Center with toys so parents can "shop" for their kids for Christmas. We hope $1000 from the Austin Awesome Foundation will make the season a little brighter for even more families. Jennifer Jones, Austin Mutual Aid Christmas Joy for Kids United States Austin, TX https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/austin tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/296777 2024-12-08T00:00:00Z 2024-12-13T23:22:00Z The project aims to support the "Governador" Fire Brigade, located in the Governador Indigenous Land in Amarante do Maranhão, which is responsible for monitoring approximately 43 thousand hectares and 15 villages of the Gavião people, and for understanding how the use of remote sensing can improve prevention and response capacity in fighting forest fires on Indigenous lands. The project involves the international cooperation of Professor Dr. Polyanna Bispo from the University of Manchester and the national collaboration of Professor Dr. Maycon Melo, an anthropologist and professor at CEUMA University. The project will involve acquiring a computer and a satellite internet antenna, payment for one year of internet access, and financial assistance for a training workshop. The workshop aims to train indigenous members of the Brigade to monitor fire activity through remote sensing technologies, thus contributing to the region's prevention and fighting of forest fires. The primary beneficiaries are the indigenous peoples of the Governador Indigenous Land. The project seeks to increase the capacity of local communities to monitor and combat forest fires, contributing to the preservation of the Amazon, its biodiversity and the sustainable livelihoods of the local population. Celso Henrique Leite Silva Junior Fighting forest fires in Amazon Indigenous Lands Worldwide Conservation and Climate https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/conservationandclimate tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/307134 2024-12-04T00:00:00Z 2024-12-06T19:52:23Z The Glasgow Baseball Association (GBA) is a Glasgow-based baseball club, currently open to all adults, regardless of age, gender or experience. We are open to any adults interested in playing, learning and supporting baseball. Our coaches have also taken time to help and support emerging baseball clubs in Glasgow, like previous Awesome Glasgow Award Winners the Glasgow Sunflowers. As a club, we are passionate about growing baseball in Scotland, with our next project establishing a youth baseball program for the 2025 season. currently, there are very limited opportunities for individuals under the age of 16 to try baseball in Glasgow and Scotland as a whole – and no opportunity in the East end of Glasgow, where we play out of Tollcross Park. Over the last two years, we have had over 20 enquiries about a youth program and are looking for your help to develop a safe, inclusive and fun environment for youth aged 8-15 to learn to play baseball. Our main financial objective is to purchase youth safety equipment for this program to keep costs as low as possible for all participants. By providing the necessary equipment for safe participation we would be able to offer this program at as low as £1 per participant. Our goal is to provide a fun safe environment where youth of all backgrounds can learn to love our sport! Your support can make this possible. Rebecca Withers Youth Baseball United Kingdom Glasgow https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/glasgow tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/291830 2024-12-04T00:00:00Z 2025-01-30T11:49:15Z As we know the town budget and the school budget were very dismal this year. However, the athletic department operates at a deficit yearly. We would use the funds to offset the fee of our annual subscription to HUDL. HUDL is a company that reviews, analyzes and provides data regarding our games within 24 hours. With this information our Coach is able to see the game again, review things that worked and things that didn't work. As a team we watch the film and analysis provided and make any necessary corrections. This is a huge tool that we use to learn from and allows us to remain competitive in the Cape Ann League. It also provides each player with personal stats of their performance along with video clips so we can see what each of us individually need to work on. GMHS Boys Basketball Team - Jack Duggan Captain Purchase Annual Subscription to HUDL United States Georgetown, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/georgetown tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/291073 2024-12-04T00:00:00Z 2025-01-30T11:51:13Z Hi! My name is Colleen and I’ve been a member here in Georgetown for 6 years! Both of my children currently atrend GMHS and Penn Brook. This specific project is about supporting, empowering, and inspiring women’s sports here in town! I had been the softball coach for a few years for GAA for my daughter while in town and help now with the varsity softball team. What I’ve learned over these years is that the softball field located at Penn Brook is in need of a lot of work. I know that Tracey had done things to help with the clay/dirt on the field but I’m looking to continue this project even more. First and foremost, the girls need a dugout to protect them from the hot sun especially in May and June. Fundraising has helped with uniform cost, dinners, and any team related activities that they need during the regular season. I have a bigger picture in mind for the future that would include not just dugouts for both sides but seating, covers for the mounds and home plate areas, better equipment to help with the keep up, and I would love to add in a scoreboard for these girls. Because Penn brook field is the home field for all ages in town (7-18yrs old) I feel as though they need better benches, covers, places to put their bats, dugouts, etc. When visiting other towns to play, we notice almost every team has most of these items that I’m requesting. If I had all the money on my own, I’d do it myself :) would love to figure out how to make this happen for our Royal girls who try so hard during their softball season. Colleen Thomson Georgetown Royals Softball Makeover - (Uniforms) https://georgetown.k12.ma.us/athletics/ United States Georgetown, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/georgetown tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/302895 2024-11-30T00:00:00Z 2024-12-04T03:50:01Z November’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to community-based robotics team [Merge Robotics] (https://www.team2706.ca/) to support purple shovels – the team’s colour – for clearing snow from Kanata bus shelters. “This would be extremely beneficial to the community when there are snowstorms,” explains project manager Mélanie Taylor, “as bus stops are often the last areas that get plowed.” “People with mobility issues,” she continues, “have to climb over a snow mound to get to the bus. And considering the number of people who wear running shoes in the winter, this issue also affects more people than expected.” “By adding purple shovels to bus stops,” says Mélanie, “combined with generosity from local volunteers, we can greatly reduce the surrounding snow mounds. By reducing such barriers, we can help make bussing more feasible and accessible for our community.” [Merge Robotics] (https://www.team2706.ca/) is a team of 40 students that participates in the FIRST Robotics Competition. Joined by industry mentors, they build a robot from scratch, each year, in only eight weeks. Merge Robotics Purple Shovel Project Canada Ottawa https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/ottawa tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/307136 2024-11-30T00:00:00Z 2024-12-06T20:50:42Z To access more State supported social opportunities like education and economic empowerment, Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria are often encouraged to register with the State disability Commission in person or by utilising an online form. Women with Disabilities in armed conflict affected communities are in danger of being further disenfranchised from this social protection as most are not physically capable to make the trip to the Commission which is located at the Nation’s capital nor afford the cost for the travel as they’ve been made poor by loss of business from the conflicts their communities is recovering from; others have never had access to nor used the internet and are uneducated. Our project takes the registration to these communities in Southern Kaduna, a region in Northern Nigeria with over a decade of armed conflict from which most women were raped and maimed, further increasing women’s disability in this region. The Guardian Sisters Initiative (TGSI) goes to these hard to reach communities to document these rural women and girls with disabilities and register them with the State disability Commission for social opportunities like economic empowerment to support their socio-economic recovery. We are planning to expand the reach of the Document Us! Project by training selected rural women with disabilities in conflict affected communities on how to register for the disability social opportunities with the State disability Commission so they can teach and support other women with disabilities in their villages with the registration. **What our grantee is saying:** "The Awesome Disability grant is helping us bring socio-economic inclusion to the door step of conflict affected women and girls with disabilities, one village at a time." Hilda Bubmi Balogun Document Us! Worldwide Disability https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/disability tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/304601 2024-11-30T00:00:00Z 2024-12-12T19:24:57Z Our latest grant has been awarded to Karatedo Honma Dojo, a traditional Japanese karate school in the East Village, and their new "Sassy Senior Self-Defense Workshops." Building on the success of a series of three self-defense workshops they ran for seniors in their area, they will be running four more workshops in 2025 at their dojo, providing their students with practical self-defense skills, a sense of empowerment and accomplishment, and a community centered around traditional Japanese karate and culture. _"Senior citizens, and Asian seniors in particular, are a vulnerable subset of New Yorkers. The Stop AAPI Hate Coalition reported in 2022 one out of four (26.2%) harassment cases against Asian American adults 60 and older were physical assault. Our grandparents, aunties and uncles deserve to feel safe! We teach self defense. In our general classes we often talk about and practice decisive action that allows us to make a safe escape, but senior citizens do not have the option to run away. Our aim for this project is to tailor a series of workshops specifically for seniors that allows them to build confidence, situational awareness and practical self-defense knowledge. Our hope is that they will use the knowledge and exercise to remain as independent and sassy as their advanced years allow."_ _"Sassy seniors are essential to every community! In Japanese culture we revere our elders. Developing these workshops feels strongly in line with our values and addresses a need within our larger community. Adapting our highly specialized martial arts skill set and using our sensitivity to the needs of seniors, we are going to empower them. Our elders hold deep reserves of knowledge, wisdom, patience and humor. Empowering them in their golden years makes life more awesome for everyone they know and touch!"_ * Follow them on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/honmadojo/) * Follow on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/KaratedoHonmaDojo/) Marisa Honma Sassy Senior Self-Defense Workshops http://www.honmadojo.org United States New York City, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/nyc tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/307492 2024-11-30T00:00:00Z 2024-12-26T20:46:48Z Ramadan is one of the holiest months for Muslims around the world. It is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Muslims engage in increased prayer, recitation of the Quran, and engage in acts of charity and kindness. The month of Ramadan concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a holiday marking the end of the fasting period, during which Muslims come together for special prayers, feasts, and giving of gifts. Due to ongoing anti-2SLGBTQIA+ prejudices in mainstream Muslim communities in the GTA (and beyond), hundreds of queer Muslims will need safe, affirming, inclusive, joyful space to celebrate Ramadan in community that welcomes both their Muslimness and their queerness (using ‘queer’ as an inclusive and expansive umbrella term for 2SLGBTQIA+ identities). In 2025, Ramadan will begin on March 1st, 2025 and end on March 31st, 2024. [The Queer Muslim Network](https://www.queermuslimnetwork.com/), a grassroots organization founded in 2020 and powered entirely by passionate volunteers who are full-time students or workers. is planning 3 distinct events to celebrate Ramadan with the 2SLGBTQIA+ Muslim community (and friends!) from the Greater Toronto Area. Layale Bazzi Queer Muslim Network Ramadan 2025 https://www.queermuslimnetwork.com/events Canada Toronto https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/toronto tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/304886 2024-11-28T00:00:00Z 2024-11-28T21:02:02Z Սյունիքի մարզի Սիսիան քաղաքում ընդամենը օրեր առաջ հիմնել եմ Bee's House Մեղրի և մեղվի ցուցասրահ, որի նպատակն է աշխուժացնել մշակութային կյանք, ակտիվացնել զբոսաշրջային հոսքը և առաջին ձեռքից ներկայացնել մեղրի ստացման գործընթացը զրոյից, և մեղվի կյանքի բոլոր փուլերը։ Այն իր տեսակով և ֆորմատով առաջինն է մարզում և կարծես թե ողջ հանրապետությունում։ ՕՍՄ-ին դիմելու նպատակս է դպրոցահասակների մոտ խթանել մշակույթի, մեղվապահության հանդեպ հետաքրքրությունը և մեղվի կարևորության մասին իրազեկվածության մակարդակի բարձրացումը, Ինչպես նաև զարգացնել ցուցասրահներ և թանգարաններ այցելելու մշակույթը։ Իմ նախագիծն է Սիսիան համայնքի 10 գյուղերից ( Սառնակունք, Ծղուկ, Անգեղակոթ, Շաղատ, Ախլաթյան, Վաղատին, Տոլորս, Նորավան, Ույծ, Դարբաս) 200 աշակերտի հնարավորություն տալ անվճար այցելելու իմ ցուցասրահ։ Արթուր Գրիգորյան Bee's House https://www.instagram.com/beeshouse_arm?igsh=MWN5aWlob3cwa3UwaQ== Armenia Yerevan https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/yerevan tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/305351 2024-11-27T00:00:00Z 2024-12-08T23:36:15Z Creating for Charity is a NSW based group of like-minded volunteers who create, sew, knit and crochet items to meet the needs of Charity and Community groups such as hospitals, community centres, aged care, schools and other organisations supporting vulnerable people in our Community. Our volunteer makers have voluminous fabric and yarn stashes and together we inspire ideas and create a sense of comradery and improved mental health for those wanting to make a difference and give back. Examples of created items range from newborn premmie garments; bright sheets & pillowcases for children in long-stay hospital; winter warmers and various items for those undergoing chemotherapy or in end-of-life care. The specific grant request for Project Back to School will allow us to purchase stationery and sanitary items not received via donations to add to environmentally friendly handmade library bags & sanitary pouches, plus provide funds for out-of-pocket delivery costs to Schools further away than our volunteer drivers can manage. The key Coordinator of Creating for Charity is located in Lake Macquarie at Speers Point, where all items are processed and quality checked before being sent out to requesting charities, hospitals, schools or community groups. Requests are supplied from stock-on-hand or published via a post on Creating for Charity’s Facebook site. We have a number of key times per year where items accumulate for bulk distribution: • World Prematurity Day-November each year: where newborn gowns, scent hearts, quilts, humidicrib belts, soft toys and beanies are distributed to various hospitals in the Premmie Day theme of Purple • Back to School–January: Handmade Library bags and sanitary pouches along with donated stationery items are distributed by the thousands to schools in low socio-economic areas • Easter themed donated items are sent to Hospitals or community centres for distribution children in need. We also support services in Northern Territory and PNG. Trisha Downes PROJECT BACK TO SCHOOL Australia Lake Mac https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/lakemac tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/305128 2024-11-27T00:00:00Z 2024-12-05T15:27:52Z Providence Student Union (PSU) will host their annual youth-led Know Your Rights (KYR) conference in March 2025. The KYR conference inspires young leaders to delve into civics and student rights, envision changes to school policy, learn from each other, and plug into local advocacy and organizing efforts. Awesome Foundation Rhode Island's support will help the PSU deveopl a more comprehensive conference in response to student feedback. Potential plans include conducting youth-led research and student surveys, increasing turnout, holding a forum to target decision makers, and developing a proposal to expand students’ rights under state law. The PSU will continue to provide opportunities for young leaders to creatively address issues that impact their lives, explore the intersections of art and activism, and find new opportunities. Merrill Schmidt Youth-Led Know Your Rights Conference http://pvdstudentunion.org United States Rhode Island https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/rhodeisland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/307831 2024-11-26T00:00:00Z 2024-11-27T15:37:08Z Since childhood, I have always loved the Wizard of Oz & all its iterations, along with other fantasy stories & fairy tales. Even so, I often wondered where are the people of color in these stories of munchkins, witches & other magical creatures. This piece, as well the rest of the kind of work Kessto Kreatures does, showcases a purposefully truly diverse company both on & off stage while also raising visibility for the different type of artists of color that exist & showing that we exist in our own unique powerful ways, because representation matters. How did he come to be hanging there in that corn field? This original adaptation of an OZ story follows the newly appointed “His Majesty the Scarecrow,” as he is tasked to save the citizens of Winkie country from an ever-increasing horde of crows. The narrative follows his journey back down the yellow brick road to discover his life before becoming a scarecrow & the lynching of an African American man that ended that life. Joined by his companions; the Wogglebug, the Sawhorse, the Patchwork girl & a perpetually puckish crow - his journey explores connections between Oz & the United States in the early 1900’s. Through its innovative use of puppetry, powerful storytelling, & culturally relevant music, The Scarecrow aims to captivate audiences, provoke thought, & inspire change. This production serves as a testament to the transformative power of imagination, history & the human spirit. My show The Scarecrow premiered at La Mama Experimental Theatre Club as a part of the puppetry festival this Nov 1st-3rd and will be a part of the Chicago International Puppetry Festival January 2025! Performances are January 24 at 7 pm, Saturday, January 25 at 5 pm, and Sunday, January 26 at 2 pm Anthony Michael Stokes The Scarecrow https://chicagopuppetfest.org/event/anthony-michael-stokes-ithe-scarecrow-i/ United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/307091 2024-11-26T00:00:00Z 2024-11-27T15:38:00Z Our project is called Engaged Arts and Craftivisms (EAC), a free weekly public community initiative where arts and crafts become tools for social justice. Held at the public library and hosted by *Sit Around Chicago*—a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Buddhist temples, communities, and practitioners in Chicago—EAC combines creative expression with mindful activism to empower and connect community members. EAC centers on the belief that art-making is a powerful form of activism. By engaging in crafts that reflect social issues, participants are not only restoring their own energies but also creating tangible symbols of resilience and solidarity. Each session offers a restorative space for activists to recharge and reconnect with each other, fostering relationships that can sustain their efforts for change. The goals of EAC are threefold: (1) to restore activists’ energy and deepen community ties through the therapeutic power of art; (2) to ignite meaningful change by transforming creative works into advocacy tools that raise awareness and inspire action; and (3) to serve as a living archive, witnessing and recording the justices and injustices surrounding us. Unique to EAC is a meditation practice rooted in Buddhist philosophy, emphasizing interconnection and the shared responsibility to alleviate suffering. This mindfulness component grounds participants, helping them approach activism with compassion, clarity, and resilience. At EAC, arts and crafts are more than hobbies; they are catalysts for community healing, action, and historical documentation. Together, participants create a visual and emotional record of the world they hope to change, using creative expression to advocate for a more just and compassionate society. Sabaha Lee Round Engaged Arts and Craftivisms https://www.sitaroundchicago.org/copy-of-sacsac United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/301747 2024-11-21T00:00:00Z 2024-11-22T16:46:18Z epairTogether.org is a tech-driven initiative focused on refurbishing and redistributing technology to underserved communities. By collecting and revitalizing used tech devices, the organization ensures that individuals in need, including survivors of domestic violence, have access to essential technology tools. These resources empower them to stay connected, access critical services, apply for jobs, and support their education. RepairTogether.org strives to bridge the digital divide, promoting inclusivity and providing opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives through technology. Heather Reid RepairTogether.org https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090371224314 Canada Kingston https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/kingston-on tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/291829 2024-11-21T00:00:00Z 2024-11-22T02:22:12Z I'd like to seed an ongoing effort I'm nicknaming the 'Raptor Refrigerator' to help Cape Ann Wildlife's efforts to help the raptor population here in Gloucester and Cape Ann. Jodi Swenson and Erin Gove (among other rehabilatators here in town) work tirelessly and with no pay to save hawkes, owls, eagles and other raptors - and feeding them is incredibly expensive. On top of the time these amazing women are spending they shouldn't also have to come up with the money to feed these incredible birds that are so criitcal to the welfare of our entire ecosystem. So, let's start a Raptor Refrigerator! This seed money would get this project started by purchasing a fridge full of raptor food (preparing for the winter ahead) and allow CAW to use the rest of their funds to help other needy wildlife while allowing Cape Ann residents to help fill the tummy's of these glorious birds that we all love so much. Once off the ground, the Raptor Refrigerator could be an ongoing part of CAW - maybe businesses could also kick in to help keep it funded (and the fridge full) on an ongoing basis. Meagan Fratiello Raptor Refrigerator United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/296550 2024-11-21T00:00:00Z 2024-11-22T02:20:07Z Last year our team put great effort into securing 400 Lobster traps in recognition of Gloucester’s 400th anniversary. While securing traps for building the tree has always been the biggest challenge every year we were able to utilize the special anniversary for Gloucester to make great strides in permanently securing enough traps to build the tree every year. In partnership with Brooks Trap and Riverdale Mill we were able to secure a donation of 2/3 of the value of the traps. The remaining 1/3 we are responsible to cover through our own fundraising. The grass roots effort by committed community volunteers to build the tree year after year is only outmatched my the hundreds of children who paint the buoys to decorate the tree each year. Art Haven continues to host buoy painting events year after year making the tree a community wide celebration for all ages. Lobster Trap Tree Crew (David Brooks) Investment in the trap tree to secure traps https://m.facebook.com/lobstertraptree/ United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/302564 2024-11-21T00:00:00Z 2024-11-22T02:16:55Z Together Gloucester has officially launched our 2nd "Operation Keep Gloucester Warm". We are collecting winter gear to share with the community at a public distribution event on December 7th at Trinity Congregational Church on Middle Street. Several City agencies (City Hall, Gloucester Fire, Gloucester Police Community Impact Unit, Cape Ann Veterans' Center, City of Gloucester DPW) and businesses (SeniorCare, Gorton's, XP Power, Gloucester Elks, Starbucks) have graciously placed collection bins at their offices/businesses. Based on request from our local non-profit community partners already this fall, there is a great need for warm winter clothing for the populations they serve as well as the general public. Kristin Michel Operation Keep Gloucester Warm United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/297942 2024-11-21T00:00:00Z 2025-01-27T20:39:22Z Sea Lab Science empowers students to become Ocean Protectionist Artists through a mobile, art-based science education program. Our innovative approach combines art, science, and activism, utilizing recycled materials and incorporating real-world experiences, such as field trips and community projects. This hands-on learning fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a strong sense of environmental responsibility. We serve Title I schools by bringing our mobile lab directly to socio-economically disadvantaged youth. Collaborating with universities, museums, and the Library of Congress, we provide unique opportunities such as internships, art showcases, and time capsule submissions, enabling students to make a meaningful impact. Feedback from our students highlights our success: 85% report a stronger sense of belonging and connection to their environment. We empower them by assigning various leadership roles in projects, such as leading community art show presentations, which builds their confidence and agency. Alexa Simeone Sea Lab: Voices for the Ocean http://www.sealabscience.com United States Miami, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/miami tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/307493 2024-11-19T00:00:00Z 2024-11-28T01:00:50Z I would Love to participate in more community events with a snack cart. I sell fruit cups, chocolate covered strawberries and many different types of snacks and food. I also make smoothies. I have participated in many city and private events buty dream is to have a cart made to make it easier as well as have my presentation be pretty. Miranda Bueno Snack Cart United States South Bend, IN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/southbend tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/305524 2024-11-19T00:00:00Z 2024-11-28T01:03:49Z Eat This Page is an innovative recipe product designed to simplify cooking and make it accessible to everyone. Each sheet of parchment paper comes printed with an illustrated recipe guide, allowing users to place ingredients directly on the sheet, wrap, and bake. The concept combines learning with creativity, making cooking feel like an interactive art project, perfect for young adults and families looking to try cooking with ease. Unlike traditional recipe books, Eat This Page guides users visually, allowing even beginners to create delicious meals and desserts with minimal effort. With a growing demand for easy, affordable, and fun meal solutions, Eat This Page fills a unique gap. There’s nothing like it currently available, and early feedback shows significant excitement for the product. We’re ready to make cooking more awesome for everyone by turning meal prep into a delightful, hands-on experience that can build confidence in the kitchen and inspire creativity. Cory Pringle Eat This Page United States South Bend, IN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/southbend tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/303701 2024-11-19T00:00:00Z 2024-11-28T01:04:34Z We would be thrilled to use this grant to enhance the exterior of our event and concert venue. While we received a grant from South Bend to build a pergola and replace the exterior doors, additional funds would allow us to install railings, add beautiful planters, and improve the flooring. This would help transform the space into something truly special! Nathan Kain Owner - Stockroom East https://www.stockroomeast.com/ United States South Bend, IN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/southbend tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/305780 2024-11-19T00:00:00Z 2024-11-20T04:05:46Z Variables’ community art installation program weaves together culture, creativity, and connection. Every month we will launch a new, interactive public art installation at our gallery in SE Portland designed around a central theme. Participation in each installation is free and open to anyone no matter their artistic skill, age, or income. As viewers enter the space throughout the month, they are encouraged to create their own piece with our free supplies, adding to the ever-evolving interactive installation. Our upcoming project “Faces of Portland” will be a self-portrait trading card installation. Participants will create a self-portrait on a 3”x5” index card in any medium of their choice and write a bit about themselves on the back. We’ll hang the cards together in a public art installation for one month. At the end of the month, those who have created for the show will be welcomed back to the space to take another artist’s card home. This installation is designed to connect creativity with identity and encourage Portlanders to learn about their neighbors and community members. While the themes and designs for our interactive installations will change monthly, the installations share a central goal: community connection and interaction. We use creative placemaking values including the integration of arts, culture, and design to connect people of different socio-economic backgrounds and build community relationships. By participating in each event, individuals come together for a shared experience and to learn from one another through the art prompt. We anticipate 200 guests will participate in each monthly installation based on previous shows and events. All ages are welcome and all events are free for anyone to participate. We especially encourage people with little or no art experience to join in the fun. Mary Hlastala Community Installation https://www.variablespdx.org/gallery United States Portland, OR https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/portland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/300913 2024-11-18T00:00:00Z 2024-12-16T21:16:12Z The Sound Garden is a one-stop-shop for artists of all genres. The project aims to help artists get a leg up from the local level to a much broader audience. The gap between local artists and "established" artists is a lot bigger and more difficult to cross than most artists realize. The goal of The Sound Garden is to provide artists from underrepresented communities connections and opportunities to grow personally and artistically, and take their career from the local level to becoming a star. Miles Doban The Sound Garden http://thesoundgarden4l.com United States Pittsburgh, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/pittsburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/286469 2024-11-15T00:00:00Z 2024-11-20T14:09:20Z We at Tees Tacos have been doing fundraiser's and community spirited events for many years. We have now started to rethink and build our dream of a family business. One thing we want to make sure to do is to continue to give back. We currently are at the home stretch of a brick and mortar store. We couldn't be more proud and excited to bring Indigenous food we like from our home to the greater community. We have thinking left to make this a success. We need a fridge and supplies to help us achieve what we hope to be our first fundraiser for the Emergency Food Pantry. We will be looking at many more as we see different needs in the community. When we are secure it helps us to be able to give back. We hope you will consider helping us get our final products so we can give back. Tanya RedRoad Operation Fundraisers United States Cass Clay https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/cassclay tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/303725 2024-11-14T00:00:00Z 2024-11-19T16:37:41Z We are very pleased to announce our November 2024 grantee DIY: Hair. Jelahn Prentiss is making a difference in the lives of African ancestry girls and teens by teaching them how to care for their hair. Congratulations Jelahn. In her words, "My project is dedicated to uplifting and building young girls’ confidence by teaching them how to care for their hair. Many girls with African ancestry haven’t had the opportunity to learn proper hair care techniques for their unique hair textures, which require specific products and care to stay healthy. Without this knowledge, they may experience hair damage, impacting their confidence and self-esteem. This program not only teaches practical hair care skills but also explores the rich history and cultural significance of natural hair, helping girls take pride in their heritage. It’s essential to empower them to see the beauty and strength in their natural hair, especially in a society that often stigmatizes Black hair." Jelahn Prentiss DIY: Hair http://Wyldchyldz.com United States St. Paul, MN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/stpaul tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/304883 2024-11-13T00:00:00Z 2024-11-14T14:07:07Z Home Hangz is a weekly DJ practice session and community gathering providing space, equipment, free snacks, affordable meals, and artist resources to Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Ypsilanti DJs. The event is open to all skill levels and encourages first-time DJs to jump behind the decks! Free private sessions are offered by core team members, facilitating a space where beginners feel welcomed and voyeurs feel intrigued. We emphasize the Homie Hangz space as a judgment-free zone and have no tolerance for behaviors that do not support the evolution of our community. The weekly practice session is free for DJs and aspiring DJs, with a small charge for any folks coming to hang out and watch. We partner with the Trumbullplex, allowing us to give people access to this event regardless of their ability to pay the door cover. The structure of Homie Hangz facilitates an intergenerational creative space while putting DJs new to the game in the same room as seasoned DJs and local legends. We continue our collaborations with DJs from Detroit, Ypsilanti, and Ann Arbor, allowing us to bridge the gap between local DJs while sharing knowledge and skills. Elisandra Rosario Homie Hangz https://www.instagram.com/homiehangz/ United States Ann Arbor, MI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/ann-arbor tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/292185 2024-11-13T00:00:00Z 2024-12-03T18:37:56Z We hope to bring opportunities and lots of jobs to Westminster. From our Cafe location, to our restaurant on Main Street, with a soon-to-break-ground catering kitchen in the back of the Times Building, and a food trailer. We are two people with big dreams, big plans, and are working dilligently to bring it to fruition. Ashley Gerald Collison Course http://Www.collisioncoursemd.com United States Westminster, MD https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/westminster tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/297260 2024-11-13T00:00:00Z 2024-11-14T14:07:51Z The FreedomLives program is one of four main programs offered by Freedom House Detroit (FHD). FHD provides wraparound services for new arrivals to the US seeking humanitarian protection. FreedomLives welcomes new arrivals with shelter services including a bed, three meals per day, toiletries, and clothing. FreedomAids ensures clients have pro-bono legal guidance and representation by FHD’s in-house legal team as they navigate the protection process. FreedomCares provides mental health care with an on-site therapist, and provides access to no- or low-cost medical care, with FHD paying for medical care as necessary. FreedomWorks prepares clients for employment, offering workshops on the US employment landscape, English language classes, and volunteer opportunities with local businesses. These services work together to provide holistic (and awesome!) support for new arrivals who come to the US with no resources, no social connections, and having fled persecution in their home countries. The FreedomLives Bed Bug Prevention initiative aims to enhance the prevention strategies FHD already has in place. Current bed bug prevention strategies include offering incoming clients the chance to wash and dry their clothes upon arrival and monthly pest control inspections by Orkin. With laundry machines in near constant use, however, they often must wait until they already receive their bed or room assignment before doing their laundry. When an infestation occurs, the affected room(s) as well as all adjacent rooms are fumigated within 5 days. Fumigation costs a minimum of $600 per occurrence. Bed bugs are, unfortunately, an occasional problem for all shelters. This new initiative will enhance prevention with a bag-style bed bug heater. Having a dedicated device will ensure all incoming luggage and belongings are treated. Adding this step to FHD’s intake process will make infestations vanishingly rare. Joe Newman FreedomLives Bed Bug Prevention http://freedomhousedetroit.org United States Ann Arbor, MI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/ann-arbor tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/299979 2024-11-12T00:00:00Z 2024-11-18T20:23:29Z Pyrrhic Defeat is a portrait series that humanizes incarcerated individuals, shedding light on the immense human cost of mass incarceration in America. These portraits offer a dignified, intimate view of the men with whom I was incarcerated, challenging the stigmatizing image of those within the prison system. The title references pyrrhic defeat theory, which is the idea that those with the power to change a system benefit from the way it currently works. This theory suggests that the intentions of the criminal justice system are the very opposite of common expectations; it functions the way it does in order to fail at rehabilitation and crime prevention, amounting in a $182 billion dollar victory for the prison industrial complex. I am expanding my focus to include portraits of advocates for criminal justice reform. This evolution of the project highlights not only those affected by incarceration but also the individuals fighting to change the system. These reformers, many of whom advocate for prison abolition and systemic change, represent a collective push toward reimagining justice in America. Through this broader lens, my work emphasizes that true reform is a shared responsibility. Mark Loughney Pyrrhic Defeat https://www.loughneyart.com/pyrrhic-defeat United States Philadelphia, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/philadelphia tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/300008 2024-11-12T00:00:00Z 2025-01-13T17:26:30Z The Fanny Jackson School Library is a welcoming space with over 10,000 books for our 550 students. While many schools automatically fund their libraries, our students consider themselves lucky to be able to visit our volunteer-run library. Their appreciation is palpable when they cheer or applaud after discussing a new read aloud or reference book. The students find peace and To keep things running smoothly, I need to be able to pay for the software license to run our digital catalog. The behind-the-scenes support of funding a database to run a library may not seem glamorous, but it makes it seamless for us to circulate books when classes visit. It also makes it possible for students to search for their own titles independently and to learn to use a database. In addition to the database, your contribution would buy some new books and a game so that students have the excitement of borrowing new releases throughout the year. Katie Grosh Digital catalog and chairs for school library http://n/a United States Philadelphia, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/philadelphia tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/299780 2024-11-11T00:00:00Z 2024-11-01T18:40:55Z Bringing a Tap Tap bus (common in the Caribbean and other countries) to the Seneff Arts Plaza for all to watch being painted and even help decorate, will bring back fond memories to Central Floridians from cultures where they've ridden a Tap Tap bus and also to travelers who've been amazed at the sight. Patrick Noze Tap Tap Bus tapping colorful design for community http://www.FusionFest.org United States Orlando, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/orlando tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/296237 2024-11-10T00:00:00Z 2024-11-11T16:51:46Z My band, Trianna Feruza and the Heavy Hitters, is in the process of producing our debut album, a collection of original songs inspired by our experiences growing up in Santa Cruz, California. We’ve spent the last five years contributing to the local music scene as professional musicians, with a deep passion for our community. We have a 10 track album we will record at Santa Cruz Recording, hiring local producers, videographers and engineers to help us cultivate the best version of this project we can. We will hire all local, and plan on utilizing our team to create an impactful collection of tunes. As we prepare for our summer 2025 tour, this album will be the heartbeat of our journey, representing our home and the people who shaped us. We are working diligently to create music that uplifts and inspires our community, but we need your help to bring this vision to life. Your support will ensure that we can take this music on the road, share our Santa Cruz sound, and continue to inspire those around us. Trianna Feruza The Heavy Hitters https://www.triannaferuza.com/the-heavy-hitters-epk-1 United States Santa Cruz, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/santacruz tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/304615 2024-11-10T00:00:00Z 2024-11-11T18:12:35Z Voices Across The Board Inc. is looking to host a community art exhibition to showcase local Newburgh creatives and artist. Our awesome project is looking to give the surrounding public especially those who draw, spray paint, build sculptures, and paint on various canvases a free and safe place to express themselves and to collaborate with one another. The event would take place on Saturday September 21st, 2024, from 12:00pm-7:00pm which allows for both kids and adults of all ages to attend. At the venue we are looking to have several art works displayed as well as a live spray-painted artwork. To shine more light onto the artist in the community, additionally we will be interviewing each artist for 15mins. These collections of interviews will be aired as a podcast episode on Wednesday September 24th, 2024, at 11:59am. At Voices Across The Board Inc we believe that all voices have power and meaning so seeing the art work on display shows directly that this can be achieved because the artist did it, which has a lasting impact on all ages. But we believe it’s equally important to hear why they did it which can bring a greater awareness to both the artist and education to the individual viewing the masterpiece. Lastly, we will be providing both food and drinks at the art exhibit for all those in attendance. This awesome project not only benefits the artist but the community at large. By offering refreshments and food it draws most if not all in instantly through the doors. We believe this event tackles a host of Newburgh’s common issues for this 7-hour period. By feeding and providing a safe environment for everyone, the community is directly and indirectly impacted. Based on statistics Assault and Robbery are two of the four leading violent crimes reporting in the city. https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/ny/newburgh/crime By holding this event it offers a fun, educational and above all else safe place to be on a Saturday when typically, crime is at its highest Jabari Elijah Wells Pawns For Progress - Newburgh Art Exhibition United States Newburgh, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/newburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/293577 2024-11-07T00:00:00Z 2024-11-08T02:57:17Z We are an elementary school in Newmarket that supports a robust Breakfast, Snack and Lunch program. This year we were not chosen to receive funds for PC Charity. These funds are used to buy fresh products. We support around 20-40 students daily for breakfast, provide around 150 snacks per day and make lunches for students for a variety of reasons. We also support families who are experiencing food insecurity at special times throughout the year. Ingrid Legros Breakfast Club at Armitage Village PS Canada Newmarket https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/newmarket-ontario tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/300905 2024-11-06T00:00:00Z 2024-11-07T01:18:07Z Meet Maxie. For the past three years Maxie has been volunteering his time and money to capture the memorable moments had by guests at mental health-related fundraising events on his trusty polaroid camera. A passionate advocate for mental health, it brings him joy to make people happy and to give the guests their photos as a nice keepsake. According to him, ‘Everyone thinks the photos are AWESOME!’. In his own words, Maxie says, ‘I like doing something meaningful in my spare time. I spend my money on the film and entertain the guests. I think mental health is important because it's not talked about enough and your mood can affect a lot of things like your health, your immune system, your ability to think, your sleep’. The grant funds will allow Maxie to double the number of events he can take photos at, in the next two years. Max Truong Maxie's Polaroids Australia Sydney https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/sydney tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/300722 2024-11-06T00:00:00Z 2024-11-18T15:36:51Z The Midwinter Magick Festival is a nightlong event to celebrate the winter solstice. We are bringing together artists to create interactive experiences, artwork installations, and other unexpected joys, and install them on the streets of San Francisco. Luc Z and Sylvia Z Midwinter Magick Festival United States San Francisco, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/sf tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/290762 2024-11-05T00:00:00Z 2024-11-08T15:06:20Z A APAE de Ribeirão das Neves/ MG, pertencente à grande BH possui um projeto de musicalização criado para atender pessoas com deficiência intelectual e múltiplas. Nele são desenvolvidas ações de cunho social, ensino de música, percussão para essas pessoas com deficiência. Acontecem ensaios periódicos e os usuários tem a oportunidade de realizar apresentações em vários eventos no município. Essas ações dão a eles reconhecimento e visibilidade em ribeirão das Neves uma vez que, por serem pessoas com deficiência, vivem situações de exclusão e falta de acesso a diversos espaços. Através do Batuque na lata, é reforçado com eles o sentimento de pertencimento, anticapacitismo e desenvolvimento social. Como usarei o dinheiro: Por não possuir investimento local, o dinheiro recebido será utilizado na reforma e/ou compra de novos instrumentos de percussão pois os que possuímos, no momento estão sucateados. Um pouco sobre mim: Sou assistente social por formação, trabalho na APAE de Ribeirão das Neves/MG ha 1 ano e meio e faço o acompanhamento dos usuários, familiares e cuidadores que estão vinculados aos serviços da APAE. Estou diretamente vinculada à gestão da instituição, que não possui arrecadação própria, atuando de forma filantrópica e se mantendo através de doações, e recursos vinculados a projetos. Qual é a cidade e bairro ou regional onde o projeto acontece? (Se essa pergunta não fizer sentido para o projeto, escreva "irrelevante") Região metropolitana de Belo Horizonte, município de Ribeirão das Neves/MG Quanto você precisa para o projeto? (o máximo é R$ 3 mil. Projetos que precisem de menos tem mais chance de serem aprovados)) R$ 2800,00 para custeio ou reforma dos instrumentos de percussão. Como o seu projeto beneficia pessoas ou grupos historicamente discriminadas devido a raça, gênero, orientação sexual, idade, baixa renda, ou status como pessoa com deficiência? O projeto atende exclusivamente pessoas com deficiência que estão em situação de isolamento social ou exclusão através da aprendizagem da musicalização/ percussão, manutenção dos instrumentos e apresentações musicais, dando a eles visibilidade na comunidade local, pois são um público considerado por diversas vezes, socialmente invisível. Thamara Dalila Souza de Oliveira Batuque na lata https://www.instagram.com/apae.ribeiraodasneves?igsh=MXh5aWhmczdldXRydQ== Brazil Grande Belo Horizonte https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/rmbh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/302541 2024-10-31T00:00:00Z 2025-04-13T16:50:08Z Halton MakeFest 2025 will be a free, one-day festival designed to engage residents of Halton— one of the 10% most economically deprived areas in the UK— (and surrounding areas) in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths (STEAM). With a focus on fostering community, the festivals will showcase interactive art exhibits, hands-on creative workshops, and stalls to connect local people with local makers. By featuring an array of fascinating organisations from Halton and the surrounding area (such as insect zoos, video game coders, photographers, and 3D printing specialists) we aim to spark interest and signpost opportunities for the estimated 2000 attendees. This is crucial as poverty in our community leads to poorer educational outcomes, limited job prospects, and lower life expectancy. We will also offer the chance to volunteer giving residents aged 16+ a chance to gain valuable experience, build confidence, and increase their employability. Widnes Library and Halton MakeFest share the ethos of valuing educational and creative technologies as a tool to expand our community’s horizons. Hosting the event will strengthen the library’s ties to the local community and showcase it as a resource for more than just borrowing books. The library has excellent public transport links, increasing sustainability and access for low-income families and individuals. Partnering with Widnes Library also allows marketing efforts to reach deeper into communities. We will promote Halton MakeFest through targeted online marketing, local media partnerships, email campaigns, and word of mouth. Digital Arts Box has grown Halton MakeFest since its 2019 launch, evolving based on community feedback. We gather data through attendance tracking, surveys, and feedback to identify successes and areas for improvement. This ensures future events continue to meet the needs of Halton’s residents and have a lasting impact on the community. Grace Tompkins Halton MakeFest 2025 https://www.haltonmakefest.co.uk/ United Kingdom Liverpool https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/liverpool tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/299088 2024-10-31T00:00:00Z 2024-11-02T14:45:42Z Girlz C.O.D.E (Colors Of Disability Equality), a groundbreaking career and leadership mentoring initiative of Women Embracing Abilities Now Charlotte aka (W.E.A.N-Charlotte) designed specifically for girls and young women of color with disabilities. The program aims to support their transition from high school to college, and from college into successful careers, by connecting them with accomplished women mentors who share similar experiences and challenges. This will contribute to our mission to end the cycle of poverty and isolation of women with disabilities. Key Components: Mentorship: Each participant will be paired with a mentor, a successful woman with a disability, to guide them on their career and leadership journey. Quarterly Events & Workshops: Participants will engage in quarterly activities that focus on: - Leadership development - Career readiness and professional skills training - Advocacy and support - Self-care tools and strategies Career & Leadership Training: The program provides hands-on workshops to develop skills that are essential for navigating academic, career, and personal challenges. Youth-Led Podcast: Girlz C.O.D.E will feature a podcast created by youth, for youth. It will share stories, tips, and tools to inspire and inform other young people with disabilities, expanding the reach and impact of the program. **What our grantee is saying:** "Receiving the Awesome Disability grant for Girlz C.O.D.E. feels incredible and means so much, both personally and for the organization. This grant represents validation and support for our mission: empowering young women and girls with disabilities to reach their full potential through mentorship, advocacy, technology, and creative expression. With this funding, we can deepen our impact, creating meaningful experiences that bridge the gap between opportunity and accessibility for our participants." Monique Stamps The Girlz C.O.D.E (Colors of Disability Equality) http://bit.ly/WEANCLT Worldwide Disability https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/disability tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/304028 2024-10-31T00:00:00Z 2024-11-10T16:51:21Z Hex Girlfriends is an improvised fantasy-comedy podcast created by Ella Maria and Cole Dille. “Join exes Liv and Arlo as they help the monsters and cryptids of their town of Bloodsburrow navigate love and life problems... and try to figure out their own complicated relationship along the way.” Hex Girlfriends is an improvised show that will highlight Toronto’s improv comedy community, one that both of performers are very entrenched in! It features two lesbian characters as the hosts, a witch and a werewolf respectively, who are trying to work through their emotional baggage, in a monster town full of all kinds of creatures. The podcast will mix real-life problems and emotions with its fantasy setting, that will expand in every episode, talking about festivals, fairs, and all kinds of events happening in the town. Hex Girlfriends will use several different segments, like tarot, dream interpretation, and horoscopes to explore interpersonal relationships. Cole and Ella met in Toronto's Bad Dog Theatre’s Improv classes back in Spring 2024, both queer improvisers in Toronto, bringing this inherently queer project about two fictional ex-girlfriends to life. Support from the Awesome Foundation will cover the digital and physical infrastructure for launching the podcast and allow Hex Girlfriends to pay guest performers. Ella Merrett Hex Girlfriends: An Improvised Fantasy Podcast https://hexgirlfriends.com/ Canada Toronto https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/toronto tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/304554 2024-10-31T00:00:00Z 2024-12-05T19:27:18Z Rawlinson Middle School in Northside is one of the Newcomer campuses. We serve a huge population of refugee students from Afghanistan, Congo, Rwanda, Syria, Guatemala, Venezuela, and many other countries. For those students, they have never been to a movie theater. ESL teachers would love to provide a meaningful and fun cultural experience to those students during the cherish Christmas season. To many of our students, this holiday season is not always joyful and cheerful. Some families had to leave behind their fathers, some of the children, or the siblings. This could be a good time that we can show love and caring mind for those who need attention. "The First Time in Forever" movie theater project will be remembered for the rest of their lives. Soyeong Oh For the First Time in Forever United States San Antonio, TX https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/sanantonio tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/295772 2024-10-31T00:00:00Z 2024-11-21T07:00:31Z Chinatown Records 華埠錄音 is a homegrown community effort to celebrate the richness of music, memory, and history that comes with inherited family collections. From our favorites on the radio to the conversations woven over them, our living rooms ring with the sounds and stories of our families. Sonic Histories with Chinatown Records brings together the music we love and the histories behind them into the classroom at Brooklyn Collaborative for a week-long residency with three 6th grade social studies classes, as a part of the classes’ “Identities” unit to start the year. Rooted in the belief that we can all be DJ historians, students will learn examples of how to start conversations with family members through music. Pulling from the ever-growing Chinatown Records archive of 30+ record collections inherited from my family and neighbors, we'll listen together to songs that have long filled Chinatown living rooms – and how these songs have sparked conversations about the histories and memories behind them. Students will then talk with a family member about a favorite song and the special memories that come with that beloved song. Students will then share with the class and submit their family member’s beloved song and memory on a Chinatown Records carbon copy receipt. Each student will take home one copy to act as a reminder to keep talking to their family about their favorite songs and memories. I will take the other receipt copy to createompile a class playlist as a musical record collectively created by this class of up-and-coming DJ historians to remember our Sonic Histories time together. On the final day, we will host a celebration dance party, soundtracked by the class playlist – a party DJed by our students and their family members. Family members will also be invited to this celebration to hear their favorite songs together with us. For more information: * [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/chinatownrecordsproject) * [Patreon](http://www.patreon.com/c/user?u=108718766) * [Join their mailing list](http://www.rochellehkwan.com/contact) Rochelle Hoi-Yiu Kwan Sonic Histories with Chinatown Records https://www.rochellehkwan.com/chinatown-records United States New York City, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/nyc tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/254323 2024-10-31T00:00:00Z 2025-02-04T23:17:16Z Our awesome project aims to break down barriers to access for low-income families in Gainesville, FL, by providing transportation to our afterschool program. Our program serves 15 to 20 youth at the local YMCA, offering motivational training and educational enrichment. The grant funding would support the costs of fuel, maintenance, and insurance for our van, ensuring that all students have equal access to our program regardless of their family's financial situation. By supporting transportation, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of these students, providing them with opportunities for personal and academic growth. At the afterschool program run by MOTIV8U of North Central Florida, students receive a range of benefits and resources that contribute to their personal and academic development. Through our "iMatter-uMatter-weMatter" program for ages K-5, students learn to identify and navigate their emotions, develop healthy ways to express themselves, and build strategies to cope with difficult emotions. The "REAL Essentials Advance" curriculum provides students with skills for navigating challenges in adolescence, including understanding their identity, respecting differences in others, and developing healthy dating strategies. Additionally, our "Living L.A.R.G.E." program for upper elementary to high school students focuses on self-discovery and realization, equipping students with the skills they need to succeed and become leaders in their communities. Through these programs, students gain valuable life skills, build self-confidence, and develop positive relationships with their peers and mentors. We help individuals understand their personal value, as well as the value of others. As a result of what we do, participants will have a better understanding of who they are; build on individual strengths; identify areas of ineffectiveness, and improve their ability to relate to others. John Rollins Motiv8u Youth Afterschool Program https://www.motiv8uofncf.org/ United States Gainesville, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/gainesville tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/292415 2024-10-30T00:00:00Z 2024-10-31T15:40:18Z Achieve More! Scotland is a registered SCIO based in Glasgow. We deliver programmes to improve young people’s physical and mental health and well-being, confidence and self-esteem, aspirations, personal responsibility and life chances by engaging them in structured, positive activities that work across communities and are delivered by role models. These activities take place within schools and communities. Our diversionary activities for young people include sports, physical activity, group work, volunteering, employability and personal development sessions in areas of high social deprivation. Our Select Dance team consists of talented members who are young people from areas that fall within Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 1 & 2 in Glasgow. Generally, these young people are priced out of activities such as dance because of the costs associated with participating. Each team member auditioned to secure their place and all were very passionate about taking their dance skills to the next level. By joining this team, they meet like-minded young people from the city, make new friends and share their creativity and passion for dance. The group comprises young people aged between 10 and 18 who are very interested in participating in dance. Being part of our Select Dance team will enable them to participate in competitions across the country to showcase their talents and skills. Some participants, who have been part of our programmes for many years, are volunteers with us at Achieve More Scotland. This is a testament to their commitment and our impact on their lives. Kiera Perks Achieve More Scotland - Select Dance Team https://aandm.org.uk/ United Kingdom Glasgow https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/glasgow tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/291062 2024-10-30T00:00:00Z 2024-10-31T07:20:17Z Բուլինգը համարվում է դարի ախտերից մեկը, որ սպառնում է դեռահասների հոգու հանգստացմանը։ Նախատեսվում է իրականացնել «Բուլինգի հաղթահարում և կանխարգելում» թեմայով 15 մասից բաղկացած նախապես մշակված հանդիպումների շարք՝ դպրոցահասակ երեխաների շրջանում։ Ծրագրի նպատակն է Վանաձոր քաղաքի 16-24 դպրոցահասակի մոտ բարձրացնել իրավագիտակցության մակարդակը, օգնել հաղթահարել տրավմատիկ փորձառությունը և վերագտնելու իրենց ներքին ուժը։ Ծրագրի շահառուները կհավաքագրվեն Վանաձոր համայնքի տարբեր դպրոցների երեխաներից։ Կձևավորվի 2 խումբ, յուրաքանչյուրում ներառելով 8-12 մասնակից։ Մասնակիցները կհավաքագրվեն նախապես իրականացված թեստավորման արդյունքոներից հետո։ Բուլինգի կանխարգելման նպատակով նախատեսվում է կազմակերպել 1-2 հանդիպում դպրոցների ծնողների հետ։ Տեսագործնական հանդիպումներից յուրաքանչյուրի ընթացքում կքննարկվի բուլինգի առանձին տեսակ։ Հանդիպումների շարքը նախատեսվում է իրականացնել դպրոցներից դուրս, որը մասնակիցներին հնարավորություն կտա լինել ավելի անկաշկանդ և անկախ։ Հանդիպումներից հետո ըստ անհրաժեշտության մասնակիցները հնարավորություն կունենան նաև ստանալ անհատական խորհրդատվություն։ Հաշվի առնելով, որ տեսսագործնական հանդիպումներից յուրաքնչյուրի տևողությունը կազմում է 2 ժամ, և աշխատանքները կատարվելու են դպրոցական դասերից հետո նախատեսվում է մասնակիցներին տրամադրել հյուրասիրություն, որը բացի առաջնային կարիքի բավարարումը, կնպաստի նաև միջանձնային հարաբերությունների, վստահության դաշտի կայունացմանը և ամրապնդմանը, ինչպես նաև հնարավորություն կստեղծի ընկերական կապերի հաստատմանը։ Վահան Դավոյան Բուլինգի կանխարգելում և հաղթահարում Armenia Yerevan https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/yerevan tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/299638 2024-10-30T00:00:00Z 2024-10-31T14:08:48Z "In Providence’s South Side neighborhood, there is a lack of high-quality green spaces available to children and families which results in disproportionate environmental risks and health impacts in the community." Autumn Jencks—a 2024-25 Terracorps service member for the Audubon Society of Rhode Island—is working in collaboration with the South Side Boys and Girls Club to provide environment-focused education and environmental infrastructure to urban neighborhoods of Providence. Awesome Foundation's gift will support the purchase of native plant seeds, nutrient-rich potting soil, and rich topsoil to reinvigorate the existing, depleted soil. Also, chicken wire to build germination containers for the seedlings. The Boys and Girls Club seeks to purchase shovels, rakes, a wheelbarrow, and bug nets to encourage curiosity around bugs. "This project will serve not only the 3,500 kids that spend their time at the South Side Boys and Girls club but also their families and neighbors. This space is only a small project within the greater movement to generate accessible and beautiful urban spaces to every community in Providence." Autumn Jencks South Side Providence Meadow United States Rhode Island https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/rhodeisland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/303184 2024-10-30T00:00:00Z 2025-03-13T16:30:57Z This program supports returning citizens leaving the Centre county Correctional Facility (CCCF). Often times they leave jail with almost nothing, specifically lacking a cell phone and other technology that will helps them to communicate with family and support systems as well as apply for jobs. Providing returning citizens with cell phones and/or laptops also improves their chances of success post incarceration and enables them to fully participate in modern society, where you really need to have a smart phone or a laptop and access to the internet in order to engage in the world. Our current reentry programming offers a weekly support group for women as well as a monthly career skills and reentry class co-taught by myself and Keith Mernin from PA CareerLink. This programming was originally supported by a PCCD grant that ended in June of 2024. The Awesome Grant would enable us to continue to provide retuning citizens with the technology they need to succeed on the outside. In addition to the reentry programming we offer pre-release, I would like to add a post-release support group to the CACJ’s programming. I think that this programming would be most successful if it was made virtual as most of our clients are not remaining in Centre county post-release. Keith and I have built rapport with our clients over a number of months and in some cases longer, and being able to “stay with them” post-release could be helpful to them and also helpful for us as practitioners in order to hone our programming and track progress, which is often a challenge after our clients are released. A post-release support group could also allow guest speakers attend from human services agencies from the counties where the clients reside, helping to ensure wrap-around services. Elizabeth Siegelman Reentry Technology Project United States State College, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/statecollege tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/297283 2024-10-30T00:00:00Z 2025-02-04T23:15:26Z The Disabled Creatives Alliance aims to curate creative spaces for adults with disabilities to participate in art workshops with a focus in improving temporary wellbeing and positively shifting self-perception of participant’s disabilities. The aim of the study is to evaluate potential stress reduction and wellbeing improvement qualities in a museum setting. The study also will evaluate the museum as a location for positive social connection and community wellbeing in a finalized paper through participant self-reported and observational qualitative data. The main objective is to assess effectiveness of participatory art workshops for adults with disabilities in different countries and platforms, which will be measured through surveys. Other objectives include determining whether participants see improved wellbeing and/or positive disability perception changes and evaluating the effectiveness of Disabled Creates Alliance as a community hub for disabled adults to improve wellbeing, which will be measured through self-reported data and surveys. A pilot prompt called Garden of Self was created to be used globally online and in person workshops. This project will take form in a collage project, a written word project, and other visual art modalities. These artworks, after given consent by participants, will be added to the website and showcase their work in a collaborative community 'garden.' The website will add artist names and profiles, and allow space for disabled artists to share their websites and Etsy shops etc. The website will also include finalized data and serve as an open space for collaboration with other organizations, particularly in the Arts in Medicine field. Personally, I will be doing several workshops in the Gainesville area and hope to set up quarterly projects for the disabled community in Gainesville. I currently have a planned workshop with Grow Hub, the DRC at UF, and hope to have one at the AClibrary system. Jennifer McCloskey Disabled Creatives Alliance, Garden of Self http://disabledcreativesalliance.org United States Gainesville, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/gainesville tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/298366 2024-10-29T00:00:00Z 2024-10-30T01:17:30Z Musical improvisation is a ubiquitous aspect of nearly all musical cultures. It is a practice that binds together even the most disparate forms of musical expression. Through a series of free public concerts across Chicago, the grandeur of the pipe organ will be shared with collaborating musical guests from a variety of musical backgrounds—jazz improvisers, electronic musicians, classical performers, and a host of other talented musicians. In Chicago, hearing a pipe organ often means going to church. While this is a magnificent place to witness the incredible sound of the organ, it isn't an environment that everyone feels drawn to. To appreciate the incredible sound of the pipe organ often means being familiar with it in religious and concert settings—something that can often be inaccessible to those who did not grow up in a religious setting or for those who cannot afford to attend classical music shows. Through this program, we hope to create a space where audiences can perhaps hear the organ for the first time, taking in the incredible beauty of Chicago's religious spaces and the pipe organs installed within, but with a more casual social environment that is welcoming to all people. We hope to feature performers to play improvised music alongside the pipe organ, so that a variety of forms of musical expression can emerge in new and exciting ways beyond sacred music and classical music. This series will build on the years of expertise that the non-profit organization Vital Organ Project has offered to audiences across the Midwest—showing how beautiful, innovative, and exciting the pipe organ is as a musical instrument. We hope to build new audiences for the pipe organ in the 21st century and to create music with other improvising musicians in Chicago who have very seldomly gotten the chance to play alongside a pipe organ. Jack Langdon Improvised Music for Pipe Organ in Chicago https://www.vitalorganproject.com United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/297943 2024-10-28T00:00:00Z 2024-10-29T01:34:58Z Last October, the interns of the Sasha Bruce Landscape Training Program and volunteers planted thousands of tulip bulbs on the Sasha Bruce House property at 1022 Maryland Avenue NE during an event called Tulipalooza!. In addition to planting bulbs, volunteers carved pumpkins and supported the mission of Sasha Bruce Youthwork to end youth homelessness. In April 2024, Tulipalooza! The Blooming saw volunteers return to celebrate the spectacular display they created as well as install fresh mulch and paint Love Rocks. Tulipalooza! was so well received that volunteers have asked to once again participate in the dual events. Tulipalooza REDUX has been scheduled for Saturday, November 2. Jim Guckert Tulipalooza REDUX https://guerrillagardenersdc.org/sasha-bruce#63cee8bd-01d2-43b4-b59f-1538a0ff418a United States Washington, DC https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/dc tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/295002 2024-10-24T00:00:00Z 2024-10-25T00:47:13Z As a lifelong resident and passionate supporter of all things Gloucester, it has always been a dream of mine to have a Grand Banks Dory of my own to take on Adventures up and down the Coast, celebrating the Grand Banks Dory Trawling Fishery and sharing the character, integrity and constitution that made Gloucester Fishermen 'the Finest Kind"! The dory will be built this Winter and completed by Spring when it will be outfitted and run through a series of trials in preparation for a 530-mile Adventure to Lunenburg, NS, Gloucester's Maritime sister port, departing after the 4th of July from Maritime Gloucester. The dory will be named the "Heart o' Gloucester" (a play on the term "Out o' Gloucester") because no boat or rower more clearly define everything that Gloucester stands for. Jim Tarantino "Heart o" Gloucester" http://none United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/hy/chapters/gloucester