tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:/pt/projects?page=16 2023-10-28T04:08:41Z tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/239631 2023-10-27T00:00:00Z 2023-10-28T04:08:41Z This month, the Board of Awesome Foundation: Homelessness elected to support medical charities in Israel and Gaza, as the current war unfolding there is stripping people of their homes and tearing apart lives and communities. In Israel, we donated to American Friends of Magen David Adom (https://afmda.org/), which rushed to save lives in the wake of the October 7 attacks. In Gaza, we donated to Doctor's Without Borders Gaza response (https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/latest/our-response-israel-gaza-war), as they bravely provide desperately medical aid in a war zone. AF Board Medical Aid in Israel and Gaza Worldwide Homelessness (Inativo) https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/homelessness tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/232803 2023-10-26T00:00:00Z 2023-10-27T01:40:49Z With the holiday season fast approaching, the Gloucester Giving Elves are planning our holiday-giving event for the students at the Gloucester High School ESL department. This will be our third year supporting this population at the high school. For the past two years, we have assembled gift bags with specific items, all donated by the generous members of our community. This year, we decided to do a shopping night for the students where they can choose one gift from each category. This will allow the student to feel empowered and take pride in choosing something they can keep for themselves or gift to someone else in need. If chosen to receive the Awesome Gloucester Grant, we could buy what we need for the students that will fill in the gaps of what is not donated by the community. Our venue will be Gloucester High School’s beautiful annual event, inviting these students and their families for a lovely meal and entertainment. Representatives from many organizations also attend, including Open Door which gives each family fresh fruit and vegetables to take home. The Gloucester Health Department will be in attendance providing valuable information regarding available resources for the students. With all this being said, this grant would enable us to create an even better event and significantly impact this population of teens who don’t often receive gifts during the holiday season. Our mission started out with 60 students the first year to 80 last year and then right before we finished off the holiday season we were able to help an additional twenty students last year . The need seems to grow year after year and we intend to rise to the challenge . Lisa Rogers Lemont Gloucester Giving Elves Holiday shopping ever https://togethergloucester.org/?fbclid=IwAR2Ou4M6l2lV5lBM9sBjn3itQOn3Ua2ryjffwSta8ZxD1mApduNkWbNESUQ United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/236889 2023-10-26T00:00:00Z 2023-11-02T20:09:14Z Our awesome project is to take 100 King Intermediate students to watch a performance of The Nutcracker Ballet on December 15, 2023. Melissa Richardson and Angela LeSuer signed up to take 100 students to the performance that is offered by Ballet Hawaii’s Angel Program. From their website it states, “Ballet Hawaii’s lavish Hawaiian-themed Nutcracker is presented in the 1858 Kingdom of Hawaii. Audiences can anticipate all the traditional holiday dances, but with historical characterizations of Washington Place resident Mary Dominis and Hawaii’s beloved Queen Lili’uokalani.” This “holiday tradition with a Hawaiian twist” will have a powerful impact on our students. As they develop an appreciation for the arts, students will see their heritage and culture represented on the stage as King Intermediate has a high Native Hawaiian population. In addition, this will open the door of possibilities to students who may not have access to a live performance like the ballet because they come from a low income family as King Intermediate is a Title I school. Our cultural enrichment project is to provide our students with the full experience of a night out to the ballet with dinner prior to the performance at the lowest possible cost to our students. Melissa Richardson Taking Awesome Middle Schoolers to the Nutcracker https://ballethawaii.org/events/the-nutcracker-2023 United States Oahu, HI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/oahu tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/239287 2023-10-25T00:00:00Z 2025-03-13T15:40:48Z We will be presenting "It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play", adapted by Joe Landry, over two weekends at venues in both Bellefonte and Lemont. We will hold 5 public performances and 1 private performance (at Juniper Village, at no charge) of this holiday classic. It will be a staged reading, but presented as if you're in the studio of a 1940's radio station. There will be full costumes, mics, and even foley artists! We will also offer free hot cocoa and cookies at all performances. With a 1-hr runtime, it's perfect for the entire family! We will also be collecting items at this event to donate to the Faith Centre Food Bank. We are excited to bring this classic to the area for the holidays! To make it accessible, we are offering tickets that are discounted from our usual rates ($15 adults, $10 kids). Stefanie Austin It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play http://sockandbuskintc.org/upcoming-performances United States State College, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/statecollege tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/235382 2023-10-25T00:00:00Z 2023-10-26T10:52:00Z My friend, Kathy and I, would like to have a rainbow bridge built at the dog park. We are presenting the idea tonight at the Park and Rec committee. The bridge would be a tangible place for families to go and honor their fur family members and pets who have crossed the rainbow bridge. It would possibly help children and adults alike through the grieving process. We hope the bridge will help ease some of the pain and help parents help their children through the loss. Trisha Welch Rainbow Bridge United States Georgetown, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/georgetown tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/237985 2023-10-25T00:00:00Z 2023-11-01T22:51:26Z Human Nature Projects Canada is a youth-led, non-profit organisation that strives to raise awareness about current environmental issues. HNP is committed to the well-being and sustainability of our community. Our Community Cleanup project aims to address a critical issue in our neighbourhood, the litter and pollution that damage our park ecosystems. Our previous community cleanups in October 2022 and April 2023 each had over 250+ participants. They helped protect our local ecosystems by significantly reducing litter, debris, and hazardous materials. With feedback and trials from past cleanups, we have developed an organised system to maximise efficiency and success. Each cleanup is followed by increased sign-ups and participation, showing that the changes we have implemented are improving our events. First, volunteers will check in and receive equipment such as gloves and garbage bags. Next, there will be a short opening ceremony, where participants receive important instructions and safety guidelines before being sorted into teams. There will be a short break for lunch and rest. Finally, there will be a closing ceremony recognizing the hard work of participants and giving thanks to the sponsors. Volunteer hours are given, and garbage bags are collected and properly disposed of. This is an enjoyable experience for all involved, as volunteers participating in this event enjoy the friendly competition when divided into teams competing for prizes while helping to clean our environment at the same time. We aim to reduce litter and protect our environment while creating a memorable and fulfilling experience for the community. Srjia Das Human Nature Projects April Community Cleanup 2024 http://hnpontario.org Canada Toronto https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/toronto tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/225731 2023-10-25T00:00:00Z 2024-02-04T20:20:17Z "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world"- Nelson Mandela Empowering Refugee Children (ERC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that started in Cary, North Carolina, focuses on empowering young refugees who have been displaced by providing them with access to educational opportunities. Our mission is to connect refugee youth with resources that will enable them to achieve their academic and professional goals. We work closely with sponsors and donors to provide scholarships to students impacted by the Global Refugee Crisis, allowing them to pursue higher education without financial burden. In addition to providing financial support, we aim to amplify the voices of refugee youth in communities and raise awareness about the Global Refugee Crisis. Through our advocacy efforts, we hope to build a more inclusive and empathetic society that supports the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. Our ultimate goal is to help refugees build brighter futures for themselves and their communities by empowering them through education. In fact, UNHCR states that more than half of the world's refugee children "do not get an education.Did you know that only 3% of refugees are able to pursue secondary education? ERC works to change this statistic. Our mission is to use our scholarship program to spread awareness about the Global Refugee Crisis and provide resources to improve educational accessibility for refugees. We just finished the 2023 Scholarship cycle with applicants from across NC and neighboring states. Though incipient, ERC has won the BBB (Better Business Bureau) Jr. Sparks Award for an organization of authenticity and character. Tanya Sachdev Empowering Refugee Children (ERC) https://www.empoweringrefugeechildren.org/ United States Durham, NC https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/durham tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/235520 2023-10-24T00:00:00Z 2023-10-24T14:33:44Z Creative Music and Theatre with Claire is a program for kids to produce and star in their own original musicals! I have been teaching musical theatre for 20 years and by far my favourite part, as well as my specialty, is harnessing the creativity of the students and turning their ideas into real shows. Having directed the same shows over and over (Annie, anyone?) I felt I needed to open a school to put NEW musicals into the world - ones made by the people they're for! They tend to be ensemble shows rather than have one lead, and they're usually queer centred, forward thinking, and inclusive. With a focus on student progress rather than product, and valuing the students' well-being above all else, this program is unique from the others I've taught. With the kids in charge, we collaborate to create what they want to work on. With all the usual benefits of theatre - confidence, spacial awareness, vocal techniques, language skills, movement, etc - the kids experience leadership, teamwork, trying on hats they wouldn't normally wear, finding their strengths, working in the "real world" both on and off stage. And all while developing an extensive body of work! We are so lucky this term to have found the Jam Spot, a band rehearsal space with a small stage and great sound and lighting equipment. Not ideal for a huge musical, but so wonderful for the classes I currently teach! We have an Elementary class (6-10) who are workshopping a show about superheroes in training, and an Intermediate group (11-16) who are creating a unique, interactive, site specific fictional murder tour. Both groups have been writing songs and scenes, creating characters, and planning sets, props, and costumes - and we've only had 2 classes so far this term! The Elementary group is on its second term and still finding their hilarious stride. The Intermediate group have created 3 shows already and are thrilled to have a space to suit their weird and wild plans. Claire Rice Creative Music and Theatre with Claire http://www.creativewithclaire.com Canada Newmarket https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/newmarket-ontario tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/237637 2023-10-24T00:00:00Z 2023-10-25T03:16:26Z Iris Music Project, a nonprofit organization that reimagines residential and healthcare communities as spaces of creative exchange, respectfully requests a $1,000 Awesome grant to support in-room performances for hospice and bed bound older adults living at Mather Place (MP) in Wilmette, Il. During the summer of 2023, two Chicago-based Iris musicians, cellist Kimberly Jeong and pianist Florence Mak, served as the musicians-in-residence for this community, spending 8-10 hours per week cultivating collaborative relationships with the older adults through both exciting communal events and intimate in-room performances. While living in a post-pandemic era, residents at MP continue to feel isolated, having fewer activities with which to engage them, furthering a decline in overall morale and quality of life. Residents who once took part in social events no longer felt comfortable to attend post-pandemic. As a result, Kimberly and Florence provided private concerts in the familiarity of their own space. Kimberly and Florence remain committed to the bed bound older adults who have come to be their close friends, as music possesses the power to connect and heal souls. At the end of a visit, a resident remarked with tears in her eyes, "Thank you, thank you! As always, you have made my day, my week and my month!" Funding from The Awesome Foundation would enable them to continue personalized concerts for these residents. Over the course of 9 months throughout 2024, this project would directly reach approximately 54 older adults. While these concerts may not reach a large audience, their impact on the individuals they serve reverberates throughout the MP community, turning an institution into a home. Lauren Latessa Performances for hospice and bed bound older adult https://www.irismusicproject.com/programs United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/235692 2023-10-23T00:00:00Z 2023-10-25T03:20:48Z While attending UChicago as an undergraduate, I mentored children as a part of a free tutoring program. I noticed one third-grade student, "Anna" often took three snacks during snack time, eating one and tucking the remaining two into her backpack. Concerned, I asked Anna about her habit. She explained she did not have snacks at home and wanted to bring some for her brothers. Soon, I noticed that Anna was not the only student dealing with food insecurity. Moved to address this issue, I founded "Chicago Baking Buddies." This free program is designed to confront the economic disparities facing Hispanic and Black children in Chicago. We empower children by providing hands-on baking sessions and nutritional education, teaching them to make healthy snacks using vegetables. The response was overwhelmingly positive; parents appreciated the nutritious baked snacks and noticed their children developing an interest in eating vegetables. Through partnerships with a local bakeware company and two nonprofits, we have already provided accessible baking sessions and take-home kits for over 35 children without any financial burden on participating families. The money will be used to fund ingredients for 3-4 baking sessions as well as more baking utensils. Emaan Mohsin Chicago Baking Buddies https://www.chicagobakingbuddies.com/ United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/219409 2023-10-23T00:00:00Z 2023-10-23T19:57:07Z Bulaban Circus is a social circus that was formed in 2020, following the initiative and perseverance of Bouba Haidar, Lebanese clown women from the Bekaa Valley. After living in Berlin for several years where she worked and collaborated with many fellow clowns and artists, she recognized the healing power of circus and theater arts and their ability to empower children individually and collectively and decided to come back to Lebanon amidst the several crises to start a social circus. It is a place of creation and encounter, offering a creative and cultural safe space for local and refugee children and local communities in Sadnayel, Beqaa, Lebanon. It is a playful exchange of stories, skills, and wondrous experiences through workshops, events, and performances At its core, Bulaban circus provides the space and tools for children to free themselves from societal preconceptions, pressures and ‘ways of being’, allowing them to explore their bodies, emotions, imagination, ideas, identities, and relationships without fear, in ways that are healing, authentic, honest, and true. It is a place where inclusion and acceptance for each individual are key values. We believe that when people are able to explore and express their truth, then they will act with love and acceptance for the self and the other. Our Circus trainings consist of complementary workshops that lead the children to perform their own shows at the end of each season. We give them the space to explore and unfold their fantasy worlds, laugh, get creative, be part of a community. The team consists of Clowns, Jugglers, Puppeteers, Stilt walkers, Musicians, Educators, theater pedagogue, Sound and Movement artists, Costume designers, and more..who are active in sharing their talents with the children and the local community in the Bekaa through play and non-formal education. The circus tent is located in Buzuruna Juzuruna seed farm, a Lebanese association and School-Farm located in the rural town of the Bekaa. Zeinab Sleiman Haidar Bulaban Circus https://www.instagram.com/bulaban_circus/ Worldwide Awesome Without Borders (Inativo) https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/awesomewithoutborders tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/232290 2023-10-19T00:00:00Z 2024-01-02T16:26:47Z At Hopeful Hair, we're on a mission to empower children in foster care and adoption. We provide free, professional hair services that go beyond styling; it's about building confidence and self-worth. Our Vision: Imagine a world where every child, regardless of their background, looks good, feels good, and does good. Why It Matters: Many of these children face challenges that can make them feel unwanted or unseen. We believe that when you look in the mirror and feel good about yourself, it can be a catalyst for positive change. How We Do It: Our dedicated team of skilled stylists and caring volunteers creates a day of pampering and transformation. Why We Need Your Support: To expand our reach and make a difference in even more lives, we need your help. How You Can Help: Your contribution, no matter the size, enables us to continue our mission. Join us in empowering these children to look good, feel good, and do good. Thank you for being a part of Hopeful Hair's mission to create a world where every child feels valued and ready to conquer their dreams. Latanya Bramwell Hopeful Hair http://www.hopefulhair.org United States Miami, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/miami tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/233507 2023-10-19T00:00:00Z 2023-10-25T17:12:56Z Formerly Queen’s Collage Collectives, and now Queer Collage Collective, QCC is a queer-led, anti-oppressive arts collective for healing and strengthening mental health! We do collage art programming (physical and virtual) that centralizes anti-oppressive pedagogies. Some of our past events include: Queen’s first EVER Queer Prom (2019), a virtual anti-racist collage series featuring BLM-TO co-founder Pascale Diverlus (2020), and many events centered around queer kinship, anti-racism, mental health, allyship / solidarities, and more. We aim to provide an accountable space to facilitate anti-oppressive thinking, conversation, and learning. We facilitate this learning through collaging and discussions at our events and workshops. The new goal for QCC is to have its own physical space to run community workshops and events! Picture this: a space for a free queer, trans, black, indigenous and people of colour youth anti-oppressive / social Justice after school program, to have school trips where students learn about anti-oppressive subjects whilst collaging, an anti-oppressive book club, art therapy, queer movie & collage nights, queer dance nights, karaoke and collage, etc!!! The possibilities are endless if QCC is able to obtain its own space! Alyssa Vernon Queer Collage Collective (QCC) https://instagram.com/queercollagecollectives?igshid=NGVhN2U2NjQ0Yg== Canada Kingston https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/kingston-on tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/238750 2023-10-17T00:00:00Z 2023-11-22T14:28:47Z O projeto busca ressignificar a vida por meio da sensibilização para a prevenção atraves do auto cuidado., valorizando a vida, com a sua real importância e com saúde. Portanto, a melhor forma de prevenir e manter a saúde física e mental é através de diálogos e discussões que abordem temas desconfortáveis na nossa cultura, como o suicídio, o cancer como outros problemas de saúde publica que tanto afligem a nossa população, com leveza e com uma linguaguem acessivel. O objetivo desse projeto alem de proporcionar a população de Brumadinho, se apropriarem do Espaço Cozinha Sabores da Associação Transforma o Vale do Paraopeba, e ressignificarem a vida através de encontros prazeirosos para cuidarem da saúde física e mental. Isso através de praticas onde poderão receber cuidados pessoais oferecidos em parceria com profissionais da comunidade como massoterapeutas, profissionais da estética, palestras de profissionais especialistas em saúde e qualidade de vida.O tema dos encontros serao norteados pelas campanhas de saúde publica o Novembro Rosa e o outubro Azul , Janeiro Branco etc... A capacidade do local e para 150 pessoas. Associacao Transforma o VaAle do Paraopeba Cafe do Auto Cuidado http://@associacaotransforma2023 Brazil Brumadinho https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/brumadinho tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/235528 2023-10-16T00:00:00Z 2023-10-16T00:57:15Z October’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to Sam Kellerman and The Absent Friends Shadow Cast to support their continuing performances alongside screenings of the Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Mayfair Theatre. “My cast,” explains Sam, “has been performing the Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Mayfair Theatre on a monthly basis – and six times in October – since fall 2010. We are all volunteers and get no funding from the theatre itself, nor do we get any outside funding from any organization.” “Our show consists of mirroring the cult classic on stage – costumes, props, blocking, and all – as the film is projected on the theatre’s screen. We also encourage the audience to participate in all the traditions surrounding cinematic screenings of Rocky Horror – throwing toast, toilet paper, using water guns, wearing newspaper on your head, and so on.” “For the last decade we have held the title of third-most-attended Rocky Horror screenings in North America, and we are the most attended screenings of Rocky Horror in Canada. We are also the longest running theatrical performance in Ottawa.” “We aim,” Sam continues, “to preserve and maintain the phenomenon that has developed around Rocky Horror. We are, in sorts, a high-heeled museum piece of late 70's and 80's midnight movie culture. We also serve as a safe space for the LGBT, goth, counter culture, grind house, punk, cinematic and theatrical communities to gather on a monthly basis.” [This month’s shows] (https://events.com/r/en_US/tickets/the-rocky-horror-picture-show-ottawa-october-911348) take place Friday, October 27, at 9 PM and midnight; Saturday, October 28, at 9 PM and midnight; and Tuesday, October 31, at 6 PM and 9 PM. Sam is the founder, director, stage manager, and costumer of The Absent Friends Shadow Cast – as well as an actor in the show. He is completing his studies in mortuary sciences, and works as a full time funeral director. Samuel Kellerman Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Mayfair https://www.facebook.com/rockyhorrorottawa Canada Ottawa https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ottawa tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/235875 2023-10-16T00:00:00Z 2023-10-22T04:35:31Z KFIVE is a nonprofit organization offering students in grades K-5 with English and mathematics in-person tutoring. Hoping to bring students back into the classroom after COVID-19 interruptions, KFIVE wanted to restore the traditional learning environment. With a focus on one-on-one and small-group learning, KFIVE aims to provide tailored support for students using individualized materials. All students are tutored by high schoolers enrolled in honors and/or Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Tutoring sessions are conducted on a weekly basis, with various activities incorporated into the lessons to encourage student participation. Recognizing that many parents are concerned about their child's lack of confidence, KFIVE prioritizes not only their academic growth but also their emotional well-being and intelligence. KOLLECTIVE offers volunteering opportunities from across the Greater Pittsburgh region to middle and high school students, allowing them to explore a world of community engagement, develop essential life skills, and foster a sense of civic responsibility benefiting both the moral compass of the student and the Pittsburgh community they serve. In our “Thank you, Veterans” workshop, we were able to write 100+ thank you cards to veterans, directly conveying gratitude and support to those who have served our country. Through tutoring and KOLLECTIVE, we not only enhance the personal development of young students, but also contribute to the betterment of the Pittsburgh community. We believe that by nurturing responsible, engaged, and compassionate citizens from an early age, we are making a lasting positive impact on both the individual and the collective well-being of our city. KFIVE KFIVE Tutoring and KOLLECTIVE https://www.kfive.org/ United States Pittsburgh, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/pittsburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/237902 2023-10-16T00:00:00Z 2023-11-27T15:49:06Z I go to Dutchess community college and am a part of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. We want to do a thanksgiving community project to feed the community that could benefit from a home cooked meal. We would partner with Hudson River housing to find a place to prepare and hand out the meals. We would try to find a local restaurant to support local and feed the community they are a part of. Ashton Balloqui-Smith A community Friendsgiving United States Poughkeepsie, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/poughkeepsie tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/219970 2023-10-16T00:00:00Z 2023-10-16T21:13:48Z Panther Pride is a school beautification project that will include math classroom input (for calculation of cost and amount of materials) and the local chapter of Future Farmers of America. McBee High is a small rural high school in Chesterfield County , South Carolina. We have a rich agricultural tradition with a strong agricultural education program. There is little to no landscaping around the front of our school. This project will beautify our entrance so that the entire school and community will be proud to say they have Panther Pride! Sherry S Young Panther Pride Worldwide Awesome Without Borders (Inativo) https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/awesomewithoutborders tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/231608 2023-10-15T00:00:00Z 2023-10-15T16:52:48Z This year the MN state legislator removed Columbus Day and replaced it with Indigenous Peoples' Day as a State recognized Holiday. This is the 2nd Monday in October. Two Feathers LLC is partnering with Indigenous media creators, elders and youth to help tell the story of how beautiful the Indigenous Culture is. Our Mission as an organization is to help education others about the beauty of our cultures. This content will be shares as an ongoing education resource for schools, organization, communities and will be shared out on Social Media platforms. Life long education around things our K12 systems might have failed us only help us be better neighbors. Heather Keeler Indigenous Peoples' Day Education Video https://www.twofeathersllc.com United States Cass Clay https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/cassclay tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/230971 2023-10-13T00:00:00Z 2023-10-13T17:32:13Z In Texas, 1 out of every 4 kids doesn't have food to eat when away from their school campus. A $1000 grant from the Austin Awesome Foundation will allow the Awesome Tummies of North Austin project will provide weekend meal kits to 200 students in North Austin (Parmer-Metric-Braker Lane area) that need weekend nutrition. Many of these kids are displaced and 'in-transition'. This meal kits will ensure that, no matter where they may have to stay for the weekend — a friend's house, extended stay hotel, or even their car – they'll have on-the-go nutrition to bridge the gap until they return to their school campus for breakfast on Monday morning. Tom Cottar Awesome Tummies of North Austin http://www.backpackfriends.com United States Austin, TX https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/austin tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/233957 2023-10-12T00:00:00Z 2023-11-13T22:10:31Z We are 4 faculty members at 4 universities in the San Antonio area, developing a symposium designed to assist teachers and educators from K12 through higher education to navigate the new anti-Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) legislation in Texas. Various senate bills have been floated and several passed over the last two legislative sessions that seek to remove DEI considerations in education, including the ability for K12 teachers and higher ed professors to teach about historical and contextual issues around racism, gender identities and sexual orientations. While this has only passed fully in public K12 education, an anti-DEI bill did pass the 88th Legislative Session and we must eliminate any DEI programs or hiring practices beginning in 2024. While the anti-DEI in college classrooms bill did not pass, it is anticipated to return with greater support in the 89th Texas Legislative Session. We are professors in communication and education who find it imperative, particularly at our Hispanic Serving Institutions, to teach our students about the realities of the Civil War, CRT, Mexican American studies and other areas that challenge 'viewpoint diversity', or in other words, make people feel discomfort with their positions in the world regarding privilege and oppression. Such practices (including book banning) deny critical thinking skills and set our students at a disadvantage to succeed in life within our pluralistic society. This project's first undertaking is a small (40 - 50 person) symposium for teacher/educators on understanding the historical context of anti-DEI movements, learning how to teach to our own identities and those of our students in a manner that is inclusive to multiple perspectives, and figuring out how to negotiate the tricky legal territory of anti-academic and intellectual freedom legislation. We seek to understand and work against the chilling effect such legislation has on DEI for teachers and students in our education system. Miriam Sobre Navigating the backlash: Education in an Anti-DEI United States San Antonio, TX https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sanantonio tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/233976 2023-10-12T00:00:00Z 2023-11-30T00:20:16Z We are proud to announce that TriLingua Cinema is our 23rd $1,000 grant recipient. Our selection was based on AwesomeStPaul's core value of bringing our community together through shared enrichment activities and projects. Check out Trilingua Cinema's website at http://trilinguacinema.com for its movie schedule, and plan to attend one or more of their screenings at the East Side Freedom Library this winter. TriLingua Cinema is a passionate group of East Side Saint Paul volunteer organizers trying to create a low cost multilingual, multicultural movie theater here on the East Side. Our name refers to the three major languages spoken in East Side neighborhoods: English, Spanish, and Hmong. For the last four years we have been screening free films in these languages for our friends and neighbors. We started out small but now have three co-directors and more than 10 volunteers. This summer alone we have shown 10 free films on our giant inflatable screen at East Side Sculpture Park (and have given away over 500 free hot dogs!). Lately, our screenings have been drawing more than 100 movie lovers per event. This winter we have the opportunity to continue screening films in the basement of East Side Freedom Library. However, we have a problem: our big inflatable screen won't fit inside the library and would be too noisy to run in there anyway. We need to buy a large, foldable screen instead (and some nice black drapes to make things look fancy). Unfortunately, we just don't have the money to do this... but that's where you come in! Ismail Khadar TriLingua Cinema's Freedom Library Fridays! http://trilinguacinema.com United States St. Paul, MN https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/stpaul tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/162585 2023-10-11T00:00:00Z 2023-10-23T16:10:09Z CarrollBaby is dedicated to supplying a reliable supply of diapers, wipes and baby hygiene items to local families in need. CarrollBaby is a fund of the Community Foundation of Carroll County and a member of the National Diaper Bank Network. Diapers are often overlooked in conversations surrounding poverty. They are not covered by WIC or SNAP. They are also expensive. According to the National Diaper Bank Network, diapers cost $70-$80 per month per child. CarrollBaby distributes 50 diapers per month per child, which is considered best practice in diaper banking. This ends up being about a week's supply. We distribute at the beginning of every month so that families can budget accordingly for the rest of the month. We are currently serving just over 200 families each month. A reliable supply of diapers helps babies avoid painful rashes and infections when parents resort to stretching the diapers they do have. It also relieves stress in the household and ensures parents do not have to miss work due to lack of clean diapers for childcare. Diaper need is a a hidden but growing need in our community and the rest of the country. CarrollBaby follows a simple model- we collect donated diapers and redistribute them to families in need. We currently store all diapers through a partnership with Springdale Preparatory School in New Windsor. Lauren Bukszar CarrollBaby Diaper Bank http://CarrollBaby.org United States Westminster, MD https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/westminster tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/231189 2023-10-11T00:00:00Z 2023-10-12T13:51:08Z No Fear Cafe is located right in the heart of Detroit. Our summer and after school youth programs focus on promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, while fostering a positive and safe environment where students build strong relationships with peers and adult staff. Our programming is accessible and based on the underlying philosophy that learning and development occur through play, imagination, and critical thinking. No Fear Cafe is committed to creating fun and engaging programming that uses creative methods to connect to students with different learning styles. My Awesome Project is CODING FOR HIGH SCHOOLERS - I want to host several FREE coding classes for kids who attend Detroit Public Schools. As a teacher, I have met students who use their cell phone for homework assignments and have never used an ipad before. I want to purchase ipads for high school students to learn coding at our center. Students can actually earn a certificate in coding and learn a valuable skill that could lead to a lucrative STEM career! I would love to open this door for students. There is very little programming in Detroit for high school students that can help to set them apart in a job search or a college application. This money would actually help me to host a year of free coding classes for a cohort of 20 students. Alicia McKay Coding Class for High School Students http://www.nofearcafe.com United States Ann Arbor, MI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ann-arbor tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/231805 2023-10-11T00:00:00Z 2023-10-12T10:19:50Z Musical Memories Springburn involves weekly sessions of singing and gentle movement for 40+ people affected by various forms of Dementia and their carers- (domestic and professional) Our project has no pretence of being a choir, but we have lots of fun and mischief. We use our own songbook, which is a combination of Scottish songs and various songs of yesteryear. The favourite part of our Monday afternoon sessions is 'McNamara's Band', when lots of our visitors gently parade around our hall waving tambourines and maracas. The most common observation of visitors is the difference in the manner of our friends between arriving and when they leave, with beaming smiles..Our volunteer team (of 12) make no pretence of having expertise in any medical issues, but they certainly provide a tactful and WARM attitude. The average age of our volunteer team is around 75, including one 91 year old, who has a relaxing manner which is invaluable... We have 4 musicians and song leaders. We also have 3 kitchen ladies who produce welcoming snacks and a special mid session tea break. We have special''theme days'' when we decorate our hall appropriately - St Patrick's Day - American Day - Halloween, and other days. .Our team has undergone training sessions including hand massage and other topics, some of which were supplied by Alzheimer Scotland. Particularly in summertime we have an occasional 'away days'. This year they were a steam train journey and a barge cruise. These outings are expensive but invaluable.. We recently had our MSP and a senior Civil Servant visit our friends who attend to hear their thoughts on a Scottish Government review of services for people affected by dementia. They also stayed for our afternoon session!! and joined in our Hokey Cokey!! Brian Smith Musical Memories Springburn http://N/A United Kingdom Glasgow https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/glasgow tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/233752 2023-10-11T00:00:00Z 2023-10-13T08:23:37Z Dit idee is er om ongedocumenteerde te kunnen informeren wat er allemaal te doen is voor hun in Rotterdam. Zoals de Soepbus, Pauluskerk en Nico Adriaan Stichting en natuurlijk de Ontmoeting. Het informeren gaat met een informatie zuil in de vorm van een boomstronk. In de boomstronk zit een verhoogde stoel als een tennis-rechter-stoel. Vanaf die stoel is het leven te over zien en te gaan na denken WAT NU? Maar ook is vanaf die stoel na te denken voor mensen met een dak, hoe het is om geen huis te hebben. Het is expres een boom zonder beschermend bladerdek. Ook zijn deze mensen soms boos op hun situatie uit onmacht op het systeem. Voor hun is er een boxkussen om een tik uit te delen of een loopkick te geven. Omdat ook kinderen gaan spelen op deze boomstronk zijn er rubberen tegels om de boom stronk. Mark Bosschieter Chair of life Netherlands Rotterdam https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/rotterdam tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/236440 2023-10-10T00:00:00Z 2023-10-11T16:37:10Z Ipswich is a close-knit community with a growing network of Little Free Libraries. We have at least seven libraries built and maintained by our residents all around town, and they serve as accessible, community-driven resources for residents of all ages. Currently many of the books available in these libraries are in need of refreshing. I hope to provide a diverse range of new books that inspire, motivate, and uplift readers by polling Ipswich residents to ask "what was the last book you read that left you feeling positively delighted and happy?" I will then take these community suggestions to purchase and distribute happy and uplifting books to all of our Little Free Libraries. We will encourage readers to return the books back to the Little Free Libraries when they're finished reading so that the impact continues and can reach as many people as possible. Kimberly Mavroides Happy Books for Ipswich's Little Free Libraries United States Ipswich, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ipswich tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/235136 2023-10-09T00:00:00Z 2023-11-12T22:08:23Z Books-N-Breakfast is an annual educational and social event that promotes community and relationship building between our school and our families. We strive to increase the awareness and importance of literacy in school and at home. An array of books of many genres will be available for students of all ages. NFA has partnered with several community organizations that will provide information and resources for our guests. Additionally, In an effort to improve our high school graduation rate, we provide our families with a variety of strategies ranging from improving student attendance to supporting students who may have recently joined our district. During this event, we showcase the many talents of our student body. Guests are treated to live musical performances, artistic expression (facepainting and other art projects), leadership exemplified by our ROTC cadets, free public services provided by students in our barbering program and a storybook corner for children courtesy of our National Honor Society members. Information regarding digital citizenship is offered during interactive workshops through our tech department. By joining us in this effort, we share a vision of creating an atmosphere of inclusive excellence to inspire students beyond Academy Field! Mike Ragusa Books-N-Breakfast United States Newburgh, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/newburgh tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/224085 2023-10-09T00:00:00Z 2023-10-09T21:17:32Z The Green Box is more than just a name – it’s a concept that embodies safety, preparation, and peace of mind. Founded by Erin Welborn, Green Box was inspired by her mother who kept all of her important documents in the house in the “Green Box”. If anything ever happened to her mother, she would always say “Everything you need is in the green box.” The Green Box is about preparation and making aging easier for everyone. It's about knowing that you'll have everything you need in one place, should you encounter a problem or an unexpected situation. And that passion for preparation, understanding, and peace of mind is what has driven our startup since its inception. The mission of Green Box Solution is to provide both the elderly and their caretake with all of the education, preparation, and resources that they will need, to ensure a smooth transition to this next natural stage of life. Our vision is to be your all-in-one community resource for all of your needs and you and your loved ones go through this stage of life. Our goals this year are to: 1. focus on providing education and resources to current caregivers and those who are about to enter into eldercare for a parent or loved one through a series of workshops; and 2. provide a "green box" to help organize the most important information - such as legal documents, financial documents, and healthcare information - keeping all of your important personal information in one place to help you and your family stay organized. Green Box Solutions provides a valuable community resource. No matter the phase of life you’re in, Green Box Solutions can provide you with the education and resources about aging that you’ll need to take care of yourself or take care of your loved ones. By doing so, we can increase the standard of living of the valued seniors in our community, and help younger caretakers understand the changing needs of their loved ones. Erin Welborne Green Box Toolkits http://WWW.GREENBOXSOLUTIONS.ORG Worldwide Awesome Without Borders (Inativo) https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/awesomewithoutborders tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/223578 2023-10-08T00:00:00Z 2023-10-09T01:06:07Z Tim Brady will conduct an interview series with musicians who earn all of their income from playing music in and around Santa Cruz. This will feature 6 individual artists, 3 currently active and 3 from back in the 70's/80's. He will interview each person, record solo performances, and either film some live shows or use archive photos/video. The interviews will contain their music journey getting started performing as their main job, trails and tribulations, how the gig life treats them, funny stories, memories of other musicians from Santa Cruz and the old venues, music influences, tips for people who want to make it a career and what to look out for. He is also am intrigued to compare and contrast how the music scene in SC is now vs 30-40 years ago! He will use the funding to obtain a few pieces of gear to help with the quality of the project, as well as pay himself for the time to make it. Tim Brady A Good Gig - Full-Time Musicians of Santa Cruz https://www.instagram.com/aquanautaudio/ United States Santa Cruz, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/santacruz tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/228587 2023-10-06T00:00:00Z 2023-10-11T11:26:31Z A year ago I began a small creative women’s group in the art room of a local school. Over the past 12 months it has grown and I now run 4 women’s groups where each week I supply a different, exciting project. I am not an artist or a teacher but due to my own story, I am passionate about giving women of all ages and abilities, a safe space to come together and connect using creativity as the tool! Creativity is so undervalued when it comes to being used as a tool to aid mental health and I made it my mission to share that. Between 30 and 40 women join me on Monday or Tuesday evenings or Monday or Thursday mornings from across Geelong and the Bellarine. We have done everything from paint pouring to mosaic to collage to alcohol inks and due to my adhd need to try everything, the list goes on! The sessions are a rollercoaster. Tears of laughter or pain are often shared as well as baileys toasts to benign tumours and breakthroughs. One thing I underestimated was the power of having women with varied abilities from all walks of life and all ages together in one room. These women range from 18-75 and whilst most have suffered or do suffer with mental health issues and trauma, many have physical disabilities too. The connections that have formed between women has been amazing. Women who may never have connected in ‘real life’ now meet up on weekends or during the holidays when there is a break from my sessions. The stories and current experiences that are shared weekly leave me speechless, blown away by the strength and vulnerability of these women and lately Ive been left feeling like I am unqualified for this honour. The feedback however and love and joy from these women each week reminds me I am doing something right. Kristin wishart Connecting through Creativity do Women https://www.wishartcreative.com/collections/workshops Australia Geelong https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/geelong tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/231218 2023-10-04T00:00:00Z 2023-10-14T15:06:35Z The Blaq Skate Day Party is a community event focused on inclusion, diversity, and pride in self. It aims to highlight the progress, success, and achievements of the Black LGBTQ+ community. By breaking down boundaries of race, gender identity, and age, this event seeks to foster equality, mutual respect, and community. Taking place during Black Pride Month in October 2023, it is a family-friendly event open to all. Additionally, the event will showcase the achievements of exceptional Baltimorians who have made significant contributions to support, activism, and creativity, both locally and internationally. Nathan Couser Blaq Skate Day Party https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-blaq-skate-day-party-tickets-711407658457?aff=oddtdtcreator United States Baltimore, MD https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/baltimore tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/234368 2023-10-04T00:00:00Z 2023-10-09T02:52:25Z Pride Morris is a new community group that combines queer self expression with a traditional folk dance form that brings us joy. The group comes together each year for a limited season around a special pride event, and its debut will be during the Sydney Mardi Gras festival in 2024. In the past Morris dancing was strongly divided along gendered lines, with many pervasive sexist attitudes making the scene an unwelcoming place for anyone who was not a cis-straight-white man. Thankfully great strides have been made in recent decades. As Morris teams have become more inclusive they have attracted queer members drawn to this unique and joyful performance art form. The broader folk scene can still be an incredibly hetero-normative and traditionalist place. With Pride Morris we aim to provide a space where queer morris dancers may push the boundaries of self-expression usually imposed by traditional costumes. We aim to provide colourful and entertaining public spectacle to help break down toxic aspects of traditionalist attitudes whilst celebrating all we love about this joyous communal dance form. Most Morris sides are self-sustaining, in that they take paid performance bookings and use the incoming money to pay running costs. However the setting up of a new team involves significant outlay costs in a period where we have no incoming bookings. This funding would be game-changing for us, and we will use this funding to purchase equipment and costume material that we be reused by the side each year. Many of us are students, retail workers, pensioners, and artists; many of us lack the funds to make Pride Morris happen without your valuable assistance. We are not asking for funds for a once-off event that will soon grow distant in our memories, but asking for assistance at critical time to set up a lasting organisation whose mission is to bring joy to all Sydneysiders, including queer people. Sydney is one of the most fabulous gay cities in the world, and has a wealth of LGBTQIA–welcoming sports clubs and support organisations, but there is a dearth of similar social clubs focussed upon dance and music. In this beautiful little gap, Pride Morris is seeking to create a community that revels in the joys of queerness at the same time as revelling in the power of dance to connect to our bodies and to each other through movement and music. Additionally, many of these Sydney-based clubs are based on gendered participation. Sports clubs are often built around single-gendered competitions, while Oxford Street has a wonderful, fabulous nightclub scene that largely caters to the gay male community. Pride Morris will be open to people of all ages and all genders, creating a community that transcends boundaries. Rosie Wylie Pride Morris Australia Sydney https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sydney tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/233626 2023-10-03T00:00:00Z 2023-10-26T04:07:31Z I'm walking. A piece of paper with handwriting catches my eye. It implores me to pick it up. I control the urge, because my apartment is cluttered enough. My friend Tracy collages found, handwritten fragments. To my delight, she says I can participate in the finding. Hooray—permission granted for succumbing to temptation! We meet and have an unveiling ritual, examining each piece of paper I’ve brought. We guess at its author and purpose. A youngster’s list of future bridesmaids? Another: Items sold by a drug dealer? What I find won’t often fit my Pick-me-up project, but this ritual inspired me to make things for others to happen upon. Gleaning materials from the streets is a fun activity for me because it feels like hunting for treasure that is provided by my surroundings. I imagine San Francisco as a living entity and intend on expressing gratitude for its generosity via “The Pick Me Up Project”. I will create small, fused glass objects and leave them around for others to find, with the aim of spreading the joy of discovery. The Pick Me Up Project will consist of small pieces of ceramic-impregnated paper (CIP) encased in slightly larger pieces of fused glass. The CIP will have writing (such as handwritten, uplifting messages) or designs on its surface and look like scraps of regular paper. CIP sizes will range from fortune-cookie fortune size to 1.75 x 1.5 inches. The glass will be large enough to leave a ¼’’ glass border and small enough to fit in a pocket. Early attempts at realizing my idea didn’t work very well. After several months of research and experimentation, I was finally able to achieve satisfactory results. The images accompanying my project proposal depict successful test pieces and exemplify what will be left around San Francisco. Julie Alland The Pick Me Up Project United States San Francisco, CA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sf tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/222673 2023-10-02T00:00:00Z 2023-10-02T18:03:04Z In the Summer 2022, we [Julynn Wildman (choreographer) and Jessi Harvey (composer)] were selected for an OpenAIR Artist Residency at an Evolutionary Biology Lab at the University of Montana. Prof. Doug Emlen and his students study the stridulatory “songs” and trembling “dances” performed by male rhinoceros beetles. Though selected for the residency as individual artists, we soon saw the compatibility and complementarity of our media, research, and creative styles and envisioned a larger-scale collaboration. The project is a 20-minute research-based performance for a mixed chamber ensemble and 8 dancers. The structure of the performance is tripartite, with each section corresponding to a pivotal stage in the mating cycle. It will be performed live and recorded in late spring 2024 at Westside Theatre in Missoula, MT, presented alongside a project introduction, showcase of initial residency pieces, and an artist talkback. The performance will engage students from the College of Visual and Performing Arts, creating a truly cross-disciplinary environment. Classical music, concert dance, and laboratory sciences can feel at times inaccessible; each requiring unique prerequisite knowledge to appreciate what is being presented. Our collaboration demystifies all three, creating a whimsical triad of entry points for anyone within - or outside of - each discipline. This collaboration is symbiotic; for us, artists who create research-informed work, access to the science and its experts is nonpareil. For the scientists, artists offer a chance to reach new audiences in bold, original ways. For the University, cross-departmental collaboration augments learning experiences for both arts and science students. For Montana, a project combining classical music, concert dance, and scientific research can show the vivacity of collaboration, give access to its component parts, stimulate interest in the arts and sciences, and support creators in the state. Julynn Wildman Scarabic Serenade Worldwide Awesome Without Borders (Inativo) https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/awesomewithoutborders tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/226728 2023-09-30T00:00:00Z 2023-10-02T14:33:33Z _Saint Nicholas Miracle Garden is a reactivated community garden in Central Harlem. The garden's compact size and dense urban context allow them to promote vertical urban gardening and test innovative techniques to maximize space and resources. The garden promotes environmental awareness and serves as a growing educational resource and community gardening space. In addition, it addresses food insecurity by providing food access programming and workshops on healthy eating and sustainable lifestyles._ **In May of this year, a volunteer team built a Hotbox composting system out of recycled materials and with this AwesomeNYC grant, they will be able to acquire the equipment, materials, and worms to activate their composting system and start to collect food scraps from the community.** The goal is to ultimately share this compost with the community and get the garden listed as space where master composters can be certified with their next volunteer day to be held in October or November. The Miracle Garden is building the garden space as an urban ecological educational site. They have been hosting a series of concerts and community events, and eventually plan to continue to engage their local public schools and offer free composting/gardening events for the students. They have two upcoming concerts this October: * **Sunday October 15, 2023, 2-6pm** - Ancestral Mbira Music in the Miracle Garden with Kevin Nathaniel and Saco Myoji. Please join us for a concert of mbira music that honors the spirit of the garden, the community, the communication and wisdom of the Earth * **Sunday, October 22nd, 3-6pm** Harlem Garden Music Festival. Join us for a family-friendly day of music, community, nature and fun and support the amazing work being done. Free to the public, suggestion donation welcome To learn more about these events, volunteer, or just follow their progress: * Follow them on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/stnicksgarden) or [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/stnicksgarden/) * Visit their website https://stnicholasmiraclegarden.org Nadege Alexis Miracle Compost Project https://stnicholasmiraclegarden.org United States New York City, NY https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/nyc tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/229786 2023-09-30T00:00:00Z 2023-10-03T00:53:28Z September’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to Luc Lalande to support the Seniors AI Art Collective. “Engaging seniors in the generation of art through artificial intelligence,” explains Luc, “represents a novel approach to addressing some of the most pressing problems facing seniors – social isolation and lack of opportunities to meaningfully participate in community life.” “The project reimagines the potential of AI art as both a creative and social activity, adapting Pablo Picasso's well-known quote: ‘Every child is an artist; the problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up,’ or, in our case, once we grow old.” “The intention,” Luc continues, “was to use text-to-image AI art generation tools in a social setting, where seniors could express their imagination and memories through ideas, thoughts, and whimsy in a fun and playful environment. These expressions were then transformed into ‘prompts’ creating AI art images that in turn generated much laughter and joy amongst the participating seniors.” “What we had not anticipated beyond the social value of the project,” says Luc, “was the desire of our seniors to pursue AI art as a ‘collective’ and the development of a calendar project using images generated by them. Now the seniors are working on images for a children’s colouring book!” To learn more about the project and see some of the images, you can visit [Luc’s blog] (https://luclalande.medium.com/ai-art-seniors-program-at-rrcrc-284926eaceaa). Luc is Innovator-in-Residence at the Rideau-Rockliffe Community Resource Centre and former Executive Director of the Entrepreneurship Hub at the University of Ottawa. Luc Lalande Seniors AI Art Collective https://luclalande.medium.com/ai-art-seniors-program-at-rrcrc-284926eaceaa Canada Ottawa https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ottawa tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/233114 2023-09-30T00:00:00Z 2023-10-04T00:32:38Z The FDR Memorial Legacy Committee has produced, in cooperation with OnSlot Media, a four part educational video tailored for middle and high school students on the fight led by disabled Americans in the 1990s to add a statue of FDR in a wheelchair to the FDR presidential memorial in Washington, DC. This epic battle took 6 years and underscores the drive and commitment of disabled Americans for authentic representation of disability and the importance of removing disability stigma. The primary funding for the video is from the National Trust for Historic Preservation but we need additional funding to secure the best in class accessibility features - namely audio description (AD). In the initial attempt to develop AD for this project, AI was used. We were underwhelmed with the results and now want to divert from what we had hoped would be a cost savings and need additional funds to secure a more hands on approach to develop AD. In short, we need people to write the AD. We will work with Joel Synder, founder of and senior consultant to American Council of the Blind’s Audio Description Project to create the AD. Once completed, the video will be released in early 2024 and will be available for free on our YouTube Channel. We will have targeted outreach to educators and special screenings. We will also have specialized outreach to disability organizations, as it must be remembered that over 50 disability organizations supported the fight for the wheelchair statue and have a stake in this story being told. **What our grantee is saying:** "Improving inclusion and accessibility at the FDR Memorial in Washington, DC is central to the mission of the FDR Memorial Legacy Committee. Our education video project tells the story of the epic six year fight led by disabled Americans to add a statue of FDR in a wheelchair to the Memorial. Thanks to the generous grant from Awesome Foundation, we will provide best in class audio descriptions so that as many people as possible can learn about this story and enjoy the video.” Mary E Dolan Education Video- The FDR Wheelchair Statue Fight https://fdrmemoriallegacy.com/ Worldwide Disability https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/disability tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/230308 2023-09-28T00:00:00Z 2023-09-29T14:50:29Z The City of Gloucester’s Halloween Party is held at Stage Fort Park in October and welcomes people of all ages. Entertainment and activities during the event include tractor rides, touch a truck, d.j., costume parade, face painting, reptile exhibit, and games and prizes. Heidi Crosby City of Gloucester Halloween Party United States Gloucester, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/gloucester tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/232180 2023-09-28T00:00:00Z 2023-09-29T03:41:25Z My name is Tasha R. Gray and I work at Simon House. I am the Admin. Community Services Manager. On 9-9-23 we had our first annual Family Resource Fair & Giveaway. We are a small community and we had over 200 people there. We had educational resource's, kid's activities, free clothing, household items, Bombas socks, government assistance, single mom groups, popcorn, popsicles, new shoes, Covid vaccines, the flu vaccine and so much more . We also had a barber donate her time and we were able to give hair cuts to 12 community members. The way people lit up and instantly felt better about themselves was heartwarming. I had already planned on having this event yearly. The turnout was amazing and our community members and leaders loved it. After all the positive feedback I have definitely decided we need to do this for our community again. We provided essentials to our homeless population and our underserved population. We help our unhoused by connecting them to resources for housing, mental health, health and food assistance. For our house population we help with daily essentials along with food boxes, rent assistance and Case Management to help prevent homelessness. We also have a Family Homeless Shelter and a Day Center for homeless individuals. We centered in our community and helping everyone. We also did this huge community event on a budget of $0. Everything was donated and we had volunteers. What we did for Frankfort was immeasurable. I can only imagine what I could do if I had a budget. I would make sure our next event will be even better, especially if we get the grant. I am going to add a job fair portion, mental health portion and more educational yet fun things for the younger kids in our community. Kids in our underserved population do not get to enjoy fun things, especially free to the parents. We made sure every thing was free to all of our neighbors, family and friends in our community and neighboring communities. Tasha R. Gray Family Resource Fair & Giveaway http://SImonhouseky.org Worldwide Homelessness (Inativo) https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/homelessness tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/234826 2023-09-27T00:00:00Z 2025-03-13T15:39:19Z Traditional social justice efforts chronicle Black American experiences by highlighting violent histories and intersectional oppression. While it is important to combat the material consequences and emotional toll of violence and exclusion on Black people, an unintended outcome is that we are only known for the things done to us and are characterized in perpetual struggle. This approach erases the fullness of Black people’s humanity, particularly how we experience joy and affirm ourselves as a people. This challenge is even more difficult to overcome in State College due to the dearth of spaces dedicated to making Black residents feel seen and joyful outside the parameters of Black History Month and calendarized events marking Civil Rights landmarks. The Black Joy Archive is an initiative that seeks to address this missing component of justice work in State College. The initiative comprises of two components: a funk-inspired concert called “Tonight, We Dance!” tentatively scheduled for Saturday, November 11, 2023 and a pop-up expo. During the performance, audience members will respond the question, “where do you experience or observe Black joy in State College?” Responses will be written down on blank cards and pinned to the expo wall, giving others opportunity to read multiple responses. We plan on conducting short video interviews with willing audience members and will ask them about their engagement with the show and their response to the expo question. The goal is to generate multiple artifacts that will constitute State College’s inaugural Black Joy Archive. The written responses, interviews, and concert recording will be submitted to the Racial Equity Advisory Commission to record as public local history. We also hope to submit the artifacts to Penn State’s Blockson Collection of African-Americana and the African Diaspora, so that these experiences of joy are well documented and preserved for future generations. Wideline Seraphin "Tonight, We Dance!"- Concert & Black Joy Expo https://radio.wpsu.org/race-identity-and-culture/2018-10-17/soul-space-uses-music-for-storytelling-and-healing-in-state-college United States State College, PA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/statecollege tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/230967 2023-09-27T00:00:00Z 2023-10-17T20:56:58Z Wolves is an upcoming horror short film. While on their way to a late-night rave several groups of friends are attacked by packs of rabid werewolves The final short film will be released in 2025. The funds from this grant will go towards the cast and makeup artists during filming. http://www.coolcats.shop/wolves Chris X Wolves https://youtu.be/yBSxSN5fLDU United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/231714 2023-09-27T00:00:00Z 2023-09-30T18:20:44Z We're a Toronto-based award-winning independent podcast network featuring local performers, writers, producers, comedians, and editors. We believe in uplifting local artists because they're the foundation of our culture. In most places, and especially in Canada, performers and artists struggle to make careers out of their work. Since 2017 we have been building a community around local podcasters with the aim of helping their voices get heard and helping to advance their entertainment careers and get paid for their work. Marianna Miniotis The Sonar Podcast Network http://www.thesonarnetwork.com Canada Toronto https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/toronto tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/232959 2023-09-27T00:00:00Z 2024-02-02T21:57:33Z I am writing to seek your support for a transformative project aimed at enriching the lives of the young minds in our community. As a dedicated educator, I believe in the power of sports and creative expression to inspire and shape the future leaders of our society. Project Needs: Badminton Equipment: We are looking to establish a vibrant ELO for our badminton class at our school and community. Badminton is not just a sport; it's an opportunity for our students to stay active, build teamwork, and develop discipline. To make this possible, shuttlecocks, and feeding machine. Modeling Kits: We also want to ignite their artistic talents through hands-on modeling ELO. These ELO's will encourage students to explore their creativity and develop fine motor skills. We are seeking modeling kits that include miniature figures. Project Impact: By providing access to badminton equipment and modeling kits, we aim to achieve the following outcomes: - Encourage physical fitness and teamwork among our students. - Foster creativity and artistic expression. - Enhance fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities. - Create a positive and engaging after-school environment. Why Your Support Matters: Your generous donation will make a lasting impact on the lives of our students. It will provide them with opportunities for physical activity, creative exploration, and personal growth. By contributing to this project, you are investing in the future of our community and helping us nurture well-rounded individuals. Thank you in advance. Zi Wu Empowering Youth Through Sports and Creativity https://www.donorschoose.org/project/empowering-youth-through-sports-and-crea/7807883/?utm_source=dc&utm_medium=page&utm_campaign=project&utm_term=teacher_8819306&rf=page-dc-2023-09-project-teacher_8819306&challengeid=22059572 United States Oahu, HI https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/oahu tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/228435 2023-09-26T00:00:00Z 2023-09-27T16:12:35Z We just soft launched our community peer support outreach days on 7/11 and 7/13. Our peer support is for neurodivergent, disabled, queer, and mad-identifying folk. A pair of folks from our 5 person team drove to meet with people in Multnomah County who scheduled a peer support visit with us. We met in their homes or a place they felt most comfortable (like a park). Since our name is Call Bubbie ("grandma" in Yiddish) we brought a bag of goodies (mental health buttons, Oreos, and strawberry hard candy) and a print out we created specific to each person we visited of resource referrals. This referral sheet included peer support resources and local resources. They were important because for further connecting folks after the call ended since broader disability and mental health disabilities can be really isolating. When visited folks out in the community, we did a 1.5-2 hour peer support session. We like to say that peer support sessions act as a way for someone to not have to be in their brain alone. After the call, we followed up with any additional resources and peer groups we thought would be beneficial. Ultimately, we would also like to host a monthly peer support group folks can be referred to after our visit ends. Bee Sheeler Call Bubbie https://www.callbubbie.org/ United States Portland, OR https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/portland tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/230663 2023-09-26T00:00:00Z 2023-09-27T00:34:49Z I am currently working on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in Boy Scouts. For my project I am working with Old Farm Rockport to give them a permanent structure over an activities table they use and a native plant garden. Old Farm Rockport is a non profit that houses people with severe brain injuries. In addition, they run programs for non resident community members. There are two parts to my project. They have a patio next to a shed. I am creating a roof structure to cover the patio used for work projects and eating. It will be 10'x12' and have a pitched top. I will have to clear the area out for where my roof project will be. They have some old flower planters there that I will have to remove so I can create my covering. I will also be taking out a window and restructuring the side of the shed to fit a new door that connects to the covered area to help with accessing the shed. This will allow the residents to use the area during inclement weather as well as provide shade during summer days. Currently they do not utilize the area if it is raining or too hot. I will also be creating a native plant garden that will help restore a balanced ecosystem there. It will be located right at the entrance of their property. They have a fenced in flower garden that is a major part of their summer program. They wish to start a multi year project to develop a portion of their front lawn into an area filled with native plants. I will clear an area for future planting. I will also be constructing a 10 by 10 flower bed for native plants to better help the environment there and to help the residents. Anna Drost Eagle Scout Project to Benefit Old Farm Rockport United States Rockport, MA https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/rockport tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/231519 2023-09-26T00:00:00Z 2023-10-02T15:56:22Z The Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter in Partnership with the National Museum of Mexican Art and local artist (Gabriel Moreno) have come together to create an ofrenda honoring those who have passed away from Alzheimer's and dementia. To celebrate the ofrenda, we will also be hosting a community event which will be free to attendees. For everyone who comes to see the ofrenda, they will also have the chance to upload a picture of their own loved one who has passed from the disease to our digital ofrenda (https://alzheimers-illinois.org/Ofrenda/). Throughout this project, we hope to raise awareness of the free bilingual resources that the Alzheimer's Association can provide to family members in the Hispanic/Latino community. Amelia Garza Alzheimer's/Dementia Ofrenda https://alzheimers-illinois.org/Ofrenda/ United States Chicago, IL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicago tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/233654 2023-09-25T00:00:00Z 2023-09-27T01:28:17Z I would like to use the funding to bring back our community's Halloween Haunted House this year and ensure we can continue this event annually. The Haunted House will consist of 5-7 Halloween themed rooms to include the Field of Screams, Creepy Clown Carnival, the Zombie Asylum, the Butcher Shop, Ghost Resurrection, and the Purge. Kids ages 12 and under will be guided in groups through a tour of the Haunted House as they try to "survive" from our scare actors inside. The tour last 10-12mins. After the tour, each child will receive a candy bag. This event will be FREE for all of the children in our community. Once Halloween is over, all of the decor, props, machines and masks will be stored properly for use again. Marquis Haskel SW (Bellevue) Halloween Haunted House United States Washington, DC https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/dc tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/223353 2023-09-25T00:00:00Z 2023-09-25T14:59:57Z The Wilds is a 40 acre park and nature reserve close to the inner city of Johannesburg, South Africa. It was derelict and abandoned 9 years ago, when I began a clean-up which grew into a volunteer-driven restoration, transorming this historic space into a sanctuary for nature, enjoyed by an extraordinary diversity of people. It has gone from being a space feared by the residents of the city, to the top-rated park in the city, and the winner of several awards. One of the key elements used to bring people back to the park has been the installation of artworks, which I began by donating my own sculptures, and since grown to include many other artists. We have found that mosaic works very well - it's brightly coloured, hardy in this outdoor environment, and benefits many emerging artists. And, we can commission designs which put a spotlight on local wildlife and flora, bringing an educational element - the park is visited by thiousands of children every month, and this is a visual way to teach them. The Wilds is a public park, free of charge to everyone, open every day of the year, and owned by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo. The Friends of The Wilds is a registered non-profit, and enables specialist improvement projects in this public space. James Delaney Mosaics for The Wilds https://www.facebook.com/groups/1582183308538762 Worldwide Awesome Without Borders (Inativo) https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/awesomewithoutborders tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/228429 2023-09-21T00:00:00Z 2023-10-19T21:17:08Z I am developing a 2SLGBTQ+ choir open to 2SLGBTQ+ and allied adults of the Kingston region. 2SLGBTQ+ choirs have been site to connect with similar-identity peers, build community, develop musical skills, and engage in political advocacy. Canada has seen rates of hate crimes rise in recent years, and I can think of no better response than gathering together to make something beautiful and share it with the world. Choirs are a great gathering place that is structured, non-sexual, and sober - making it a safe place to find community outside of gatherings at bars. Choral participation can also improve health equity, self-esteem, which is highly relevant as 2SLGBTQ+ Canadians are more likely to experience mental illness and healthcare discrimination. My hope is that we can be a safe haven for 2SLGBTQ+, questioning, and allied people to find solace and build a healthy and diverse community in a time of sociopolitical turmoil. Ren Challacombe Spectrum Voices - A 2SLGBTQ+ Choir https://linktr.ee/spectrumvoices Canada Kingston https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/kingston-on tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/229955 2023-09-21T00:00:00Z 2023-10-19T15:18:21Z Norland Middle, located in Miami, is a Magnet Arts and Drama school that serves 680 students of which approximately 80% of the students receive free and reduced lunch. My personal desire is to volunteer after school and teach at least 20-30 Honor Roll students each quarter how to craft, and use the Cricut machines to make T-shirts for our different Clubs and student of the month while learning a skill to be self-sufficient and become future entrepreneurs if given a grant to purchase these tools. With the skill, the students will learn how to assist in the enhancement of simple drama and dance costumes, t-shirts, or personalized items in-house. They will learn how to design props and build stages and backdrops for all school productions that have been outsourced for years. Receiving the financial support to purchase the tools to launch this program, students will eventually learn a skill that they can use to start their own small business from designing a website for placing orders, to sewing, photography, videography, and much more. They will learn how to manage a business by learning about financial management, credit management, investing, and savings as part of the curriculum. Allowing our students to participate in these programs and activities will create a sense of school pride. It will give them a chance to apply the knowledge they attain in the classroom through real-world projects or even by starting their own small business. Marica Mitchell Norland Middle School Business Center United States Miami, FL https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/miami tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/228447 2023-09-20T00:00:00Z 2023-09-25T23:56:26Z Westlakes Athletics Club is a local volunteer-run non-profit organisation that has a strong tradition of providing athletics training and competition for local families in the Westlakes region and surrounds. We strive to keep our registration fees as low as possible to enable greater participation amongst local families, however this means that the majority of our facilities tend to be either donations from local entities and residents, or scraped together with the limited resources that we have. We use Wangi Athletics Oval for our competition nights and annual Gala day, and conduct the majority of the upkeep and maintenance of the oval ourselves, despite it being a Council facility and used by the local community. Outside of our athletics events, members of the local community regularly use the facilities 7 days a week, for athletics training, general fitness, and play. It is also used by the Wangi Warriors Rugby League Club. This maintenance incurs a cost that we struggle to cover with our limited funds. We are seeking assistance with some of the basic maintenance so that not only can we can continue to offer our services to our local families for the upcoming athletics season (starting 1st September), but so that the local community members who use these facilities during the week can continue to safely do so. We would be delighted to acknowledge Awesome Lake Mac's support with social media and website recognition and have the ability to place branding at our events if requested. Tony Campbell Maintenance of Wangi Athletics Oval http://www.westlakeslac.org.au/ Australia Lake Mac https://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/lakemac