tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:/pt/projects?page=3Awesome Foundation - Projects2026-01-30T05:02:29Ztag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3917122026-01-30T00:00:00Z2026-01-30T05:02:29ZGloucester, MA – Sea PortraitsHey All,
I’m a 16 year old Gloucester resident, and am really into black and white film photography. I am also a commercial fisherman and am interested in doing a portrait series of fisherman and developing the film myself. I love murals and I love photos so I thought what better way to make Gloucester more beautiful than something like this! These would be developed myself and then the money would be used to get larger scale (and durable material) that could be displayed somewhere downtown.Asher Sauder Sea PortraitsUnited StatesGloucester, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/gloucestertag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4342142026-01-29T00:00:00Z2026-01-29T18:55:22ZYerevan – Կոմիտասի ձայնադարան Թանգարանը, լինելով Կոմիտաս Վարդապետի արվեստի ուսումնասիրման և հանրահռչակման կարևոր կենտրոն, ներկայումս հնարավորություն չունի թանգարանի տարածքում այցելուների համար ապահովելու առկա թվայնացված ձայնագրությունների որակյալ և հասանելի ձայնադարան։ Նմանատիպ փորձ իրականացվել է ժամանակավոր ցուցադրության շրջանակում մի քանի տարի առաջ։ Այն բավական հաջողված էր, և այցելուները մեծ հետաքրքրություն էին ցուցաբերում։ Սակայն ձայնադարանի երկարատև գործունեությունը հնարավոր չեղավ ապահովել տեխնիկական խնդիրների պատճառով։
Ձայնադարանից օգտվելը կազմակերպված էր ինքնասպասարկման ձևաչափով, ինչի հետևանքով կարճ ժամանակում վնասվեցին օգտագործվող ականջակալները և ձայնապնակների նվագարկիչների ասեղները, և դրանց հետագա կիրառումը դարձավ անհնար։ Այդ փորձից հետո նախատեսվեց ձայնապնակների երգերի և երաժշտության թվայնացված ձայնագրություններ ունենալ և դրանց կիրառումը դարձնել ավելի ժամանակակից։
Ներկայիս ծրագրի շրջանակում նախատեսվում է մեդիա նվագարկիչի միջոցով ստեղծել թվայնացված ձայնագրությունների ձայնադարան։ Ձայնադարանը կտեղադրվի թանգարանում՝ Կոմիտասի բնակարանի VR ցուցադրության հարևանությամբ։ Տարածքը թանգարանի միջոցներով կկահավորվի ձայնապնակներով, գույքով և համապատասխան գեղարվեստական լուծումներով։
Ձայնադարանը հնարավորություն կտա մինչև 8 այցելուի միաժամանակ ունկնդրելու Վարդապետի հոգևոր և ժողովրդական երգերը։ Ձայնադարանից օգտվելը տեխնիկապես կապահովվի ցուցասրահների համապատասխան աշխատակիցների աջակցությամբ։
Այս ձայնադարանը թանգարանը կդարձնի առավել գրավիչ, կապահովի առկա ձայնագրությունների արդյունավետ կիրառումը և կնպաստի նոր ձայնագրությունների թվայնացման հանդեպ հետաքրքրության աճին։
Նախագիծը նաև կլուծի նախկինում փորձարկված, սակայն տեխնիկական պատճառներով չշարունակված ձայնադարանի խնդիրը՝ առաջարկելով ավելի կայուն, վերահսկվող և երկարաժամկետ լուծում։ Արդյունքում թանգարանը կդառնա ավելի գրավիչ, ինտերակտիվ և մրցունակ մշակութային միջավայր, իսկ առկա և ապագա ձայնագրությունները կստանան նոր կյանք և կիրառություն։
Պատասխանատու՝ Քնարիկ Ղազարյան
ԿԹԻ թանգարանային ցուցադրությունների կազմակերպման բաժնի վարիչ«Կոմիտասի թանգարան-ինստիտուտ» ՊՈԱԿԿոմիտասի ձայնադարան https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzZ0f3UiUzgArmeniaYerevanhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/yerevantag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3692442026-01-28T00:00:00Z2026-04-12T01:01:29ZGainesville, FL – Improving Outdoor Gathering Spaces for GROW HUBGROW HUB is a nonprofit retail and wholesale plant nursery that provides vocational horticulture and job training for adults with disabilities. Our work supports participants’ physical and emotional well-being through gardening, art therapy with UF Arts in Medicine, and community-building activities such as monthly staff lunches, volunteer events, and garden-based workshops.
Our outdoor gathering areas are central to this mission. While we currently host events and meals outdoors, several of our picnic tables and umbrellas have deteriorated over time. We are seeking funding to replace the worn-out structures and add more seating and shade, ensuring our space remains comfortable, inclusive, and welcoming for everyone who visits or works at GROW HUB.Cherice SmithersImproving Outdoor Gathering Spaces for GROW HUBhttp://grow-hub.orgUnited StatesGainesville, FLhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/gainesvilletag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4574972026-01-28T00:00:00Z2026-02-15T19:30:11ZWashington, DC – The Color of Fire Black women make up an estimated 0.4% of U.S. career firefighters. That absence shapes who gets seen as “belonging” in the job, who gets mentored, and who stays long enough to lead. The Color of Fire is a documentary photography project centered on women firefighters, especially women of color, and the unseen labor of staying excellent in a profession built to doubt them.
In Washington, DC, I will photograph and record short, firsthand stories from women firefighters and recruits: the quiet routines (gear, bruises, hair, childcare, training), the public-facing moments (calls, ceremonies, recruitment events), and the private cost (injury, isolation, pressure to be twice as good). The work is paired with a public-facing outcome in DC: a small pop-up exhibit and community talk in a Ward-based space (library/community center/gallery), plus an open “meet the photographer” evening and a youth-facing session aimed at girls considering public safety careers.
This project is built to be accessible: images, short captions, and clear audio quotes that DC residents can connect to quickly. The goal is not hero worship. It is representation with context: who these women are, what it takes to stay, and what changes when a city sees them clearly.Richard ClarkeThe Color of Fire http://Instagram.com/rj43mmUnited StatesWashington, DChttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/dctag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4398582026-01-28T00:00:00Z2026-01-29T19:12:16ZOahu, HI – Community Mural at Kamaile Academy PCSI am collaborating with my friend Teatuahere Teiti-Gierlach to lead a community mural project with her 11th and 12th grade students at Native Hawaiian-focused Kamaile Academy Public Charter School in Wai'anae, O'ahu. This project will be a collaborative process with the students where they contribute to the design and will paint the mural on a wall on campus. The themes of the mural will be centered in cultural connection, community, and youth empowerment. Last Spring I did a climate change resilience mural with her students which was very successful. The students created a design showing the climate change impacts that they see in their Indigenous Pacific Islander communities and the climate-just future that they want to see, rooted in ancestral knowledge and traditional practices (see attached images). I also did a similar project with a group of Native Hawaiian students at Leeward Community College (see attached images). This new project will build upon this, and may include more themes of climate resilience if the students would like to focus on that. Overall, this project will develop students' creativity and storytelling skills, foster teamwork and community, and result in a beautiful artwork that the entire school and community can enjoy. Gillian DuenasCommunity Mural at Kamaile Academy PCSUnited StatesOahu, HIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/oahutag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4465232026-01-28T00:00:00Z2026-01-29T15:33:02ZRhode Island – (The Worst) Pedestrian Intersections in ProvidenceAFRI is excited to offer support to "(The Worst) Pedestrian Intersections in Providence".
Steve Beres will be creating a long form video portraying problematic intersections all over Providence. Through a combination of on-camera interviews with pedestrians, off the cuff narration, and real time depictions of entering and exiting crosswalks, Steve will highlight various opportunities for improvement throughout our city. Segments of the playful-and-serious video will be shared on social media; the entire final work will be available on Youtube. Steve Beres(The Worst) Pedestrian Intersections in ProvidenceUnited StatesRhode Islandhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/rhodeislandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4517382026-01-28T00:00:00Z2026-01-29T15:14:24ZGeorgetown, MA – The Essex County Pet Pantry! Essex County Pet Pantry is a not-for-profit pet food and supply assistance organization based in Essex County, Massachusetts. Its mission is to help local families keep their beloved pets fed and cared for during times of financial hardship so they don’t have to make the heartbreaking choice of surrendering their animals due to cost struggles. The pantry collects donations of pet food, supplies, and financial contributions, and plans to offer county-wide drop-off and pick-up (or delivery) options to support pet owners in need. I am the founder and a member of Georgetown. Our board members and myself recognized the real costs of pet care and want to ensure no pet goes hungry and no family has to make the decision to feed themselves or their pets.Shayna E GatautisThe Essex County Pet Pantry! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BhpyJJcSU/United StatesGeorgetown, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/georgetowntag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4427762026-01-28T00:00:00Z2026-01-29T19:11:49ZOahu, HI – Switch-Adapted Toys for Oahu's Title 1 SchoolsChildren around the world use toys as tools for self-expression, social interaction, and the development of cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and conflict resolution. Play-based learning is an essential component of child development, playing a critical role in social-emotional growth and academic readiness. Although the importance of toys is widely understood, most toys are not designed with physical disabilities in mind. As a result, many children with disabilities require switch-enabled toys, which replace the pressing, holding, or manipulation of small parts found in conventional toys with a large, easy-to-use button attached to the toy.
Switch adapted toys are not widely produced or sold, and are significantly more expensive than their mainstream counterparts. Additionally, when an adapted toy breaks, families are often forced to purchase a replacement at a high cost, as many companies lack the knowledge or resources to repair these specialized toys. We are seeking $1,000 to purchase and distribute 15 switch-adapted toys and 4 capability switches to a high-need Title 1 school in the Oahu area. We also hope to provide 1 battery device adaptor, which allows any standard battery-operated toy to be converted for switch use.
Through our project, we hope to create inclusive spaces that bring together children of all ability levels. We plan to apply to more grants offered by the Awesome Foundation to make an impact across the country. Riya AbiramSwitch-Adapted Toys for Oahu's Title 1 Schoolshttp://www.cubsupport.orgUnited StatesOahu, HIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/oahutag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3659882026-01-28T00:00:00Z2026-01-29T15:14:52ZGeorgetown, MA – Sharing Georgetown’s HeritageThe Georgetown Historical Society (GHS) preserves and displays thousands of items from Georgetown’s rich history. Many of these objects are connected to community stories. Much of the information about these items and stories resides in a database located on one old desktop computer. GHS needs a new computer and would like this to be laptop computer so that information could be updated and entered in the Brocklebank Museum, the Society office, and the public library where the objects are stored. And, best of all, the historical information could be shared with the visiting public including Georgetown residents.Mary SaundersSharing Georgetown’s Heritagehttps://sites.google.com/view/georgetownmahistoricalsocietyUnited StatesGeorgetown, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/georgetowntag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3619562026-01-27T00:00:00Z2026-03-11T19:59:25ZWestminster, MD – Its Just the Beginning for Kindred!After years of leading community health and wellness initiatives at The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County, I saw firsthand how programs that focus on the whole person, mind, body, and heart, can change lives. When The Partnership closed, I felt a deep responsibility to keep that work alive. Out of that commitment, I launched The Kindred Institute for Leadership and Wellness to continue providing the resources, education, and opportunities our community needs to thrive.
Kindred’s mission is to strengthen individuals and organizations by fostering leadership development, wellness education, and meaningful connections. Our programs build essential skills like emotional intelligence, resilience, and empathy, skills that not only improve personal wellbeing but also create stronger workplaces, families, and communities.
In just a short time, we’ve begun building momentum, from leading a guest presentation at a local company’s annual employee training day to engaging residents in conversations about mental health, stress management, and compassionate leadership. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, reaffirming that there is a real need for this work in Carroll County.
A $1,000 Hey Westminster! grant would allow us to take the next step—expanding outreach, increasing awareness, and hosting more community-based events that are accessible and inclusive. These events will bring people together, equip them with practical tools for wellness and leadership, and strengthen the health and vitality of our county.
This is just the beginning for Kindred, and with your support, we can create a ripple effect of kindness, connection, and well-being that will benefit Carroll County for years to come.
Tasha CramerIts Just the Beginning for Kindred!http://kindredinst.orgUnited StatesWestminster, MDhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/westminstertag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4357692026-01-27T00:00:00Z2026-02-02T20:19:47ZChicago, IL – Jordan Communty School Miyawaki mini-forestMiyawaki mini-forests enable residents of heat vulnerable neighborhoods to build heat resiliency and create healthier, more livable environments.
Our project reinforces tree canopy expansion by Chicago's Department of Environment, the Morton Arboretum, Openlands, and Treekeepers.
Elementary school students, faculty, staff, and parents experiment with the Miyawaki technique and gain mastery. They will then be able to use this technique to expand greenspace in other areas of their neighborhood that are deficit in tree canopy cover.
Our project expands the skills and knowledge base that support residents in their efforts to improve their environment by direct action.
Miyawaki mini-forests mature ten times as fast as natural forests. Students will graduate from eighth grade with the experience of having achieved meaningful and visually dramatic change. This, as much as any material benefits, is central to our project: We are building a cohort of local, environmental activists starting with students young enough to be optimistic about the dealing with climate change.
The project is an outgrowth of ongoing environmental justice efforts at the Jordan School location. The initial component was the Network 49 Vine Trellis Project, in which students quantify the reduction of heat load on buildings by shading the walls. The second component was stormwater retention by adding contours to perennial beds. Both techniques are inexpensive, easy to implement, and flexible. They can be adapted to diverse locations and needs.
We are collaborating with Chicago City Park District staff to expand both the heat reduction and the stormwater retention components into the adjacent city park in the spring of 2026.
The three components (Miyawaki mini-forest, Vine Trellis Project, and stormwater retention contouring) all reduce the high average summer temperatures and the high incidence of flooding that occur, as is typical of under-served urban areas, in the school's vicinity,James KernJordan Communty School Miyawaki mini-foresthttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560845698397United StatesChicago, ILhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicagotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4211132026-01-26T00:00:00Z2026-02-02T20:23:44ZChicago, IL – Chicago Alternative Comics Expo Cupcake MentorshipThe Cupcake Mentorship pairs unpublished alternative comics creators with an established sequential arts mentor, who can guide them over the course of half a year through the process of completing a meaningful comics project. Chicago’s own Skunk Cabbage Books has committed to hosting a release and live reading event of this year's Cupcake works May 1st 2026. In addition, Cupcake mentees will also have the opportunity to sell and discuss their work at the 2026 Chicago Alternative Comics Expo (CAKE).
This six-month mentorship is a chance for veterans of the independent and self-publishing world to help early career artists push their work to a new place. The Cupcake Mentorship helps bring new people into Chicago’s rich legacy as home to many of underground and alternative comics’ most talented artists–past, present, and future. Creating a space where those with diverse stories, aesthetics, and experiences can exchange knowledge, resources, and build relationships of support.
The Cupcake Mentorship provides an unusual opportunity that has helped creators like Kelly Fernandez, Adam Griffiths, and Anne Marie Rogers complete significant career founding work. The Cupcake Mentorship, in concert with the Chicago Alternative Comics EXPO, empowers future generations of indie cartoonists to make their work, raise their voices, and inspire readers.
The money available through the Awesome Foundation, would allow us to support Cupcake Mentorships. Mentorship pairs are able to direct the use of funds depending on the comic project’s needs. This might include the cost of physical arts materials, software, printing, or educational resources. The costs of exhibiting the final projects will be provided by the Chicago Alternative Comics Expo and Skunk Cabbage Books.
Adelaide GrosseChicago Alternative Comics Expo Cupcake Mentorshiphttps://www.cakechicago.com/cupcake-awardUnited StatesChicago, ILhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicagotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4554342026-01-23T00:00:00Z2026-01-23T20:51:33ZConservation and Climate – Restore Iconic reserve in the Greater Kruger ParkEMERGENCY GRANT:
Olufants West situated in the Greater Kruger National Park, has been hit by excessive flooding, literally washing away most of the landscape. Deans dam, an iconic dam(lake) which serves as a wildlife gathering point, burst its banks, roads are impassible and fences that keep wildlife in and poachers out, have been washed away.
This is the first emergency grant of the Conservation and Climate Chapter. In addition to the standard grant, others have donated money to add to this grant. This grant will protect wildlife immediately by enabling grantees to prioritize emergency needs first.Richard J Van SchalkwijkRestore Iconic reserve in the Greater Kruger ParkWorldwideConservation and Climatehttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/conservationandclimatetag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3787082026-01-22T00:00:00Z2026-03-25T12:39:26ZMiami, FL – Bring Your Grandma: A Community Portrait DayBring Your Grandma is a free public portrait event celebrating Miami’s elders and matriarchs, hosted in collaboration with the Miami Workers Center. Community members will be invited to bring their grandmothers, mothers, or elder figures to have a professional portrait taken together in a welcoming, intergenerational space. Taking place at the Workers Center—an organization dedicated to uplifting working-class women, families, and elders—the event honors the caregivers, storytellers, and neighborhood anchors whose presence often goes undocumented.
Each family will receive a printed portrait to take home, and a second copy will become part of my ongoing archive, Miami’s Elders of Resistance, which documents women leaders and activists who have shaped Miami’s social landscape. The $1,000 grant would directly fund film, printing, and setup costs to make the event accessible and free to all participants. Rooted in connection and gratitude, Bring Your Grandma is both a celebration and a living archive of the love, strength, and wisdom our elders bring to this city.Nicole CombeauBring Your Grandma: A Community Portrait Dayhttp://www.nicolecombeau.comUnited StatesMiami, FLhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/miamitag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3696772026-01-20T00:00:00Z2026-01-28T20:27:10ZNewburyport, MA – International Cultural FestivalOur project is the 4th Annual International Cultural Festival created and run by my students in the Global Citizenship Program at Newburyport High School. This course which I created in 2024 is a three year course for students in grade 10 - 12. In grade 10 their theme is Empathy. They work to identify and develop their skills as a global citizen by learning to see the world through other peoples point of view. Juniors learn about collaboration and cooperation by creating a steering committee and in this format, they organize, promote and run the festival itself. Finally in grade 12 students spend the year on a capstone project, presenting this at the festival to the public.
The festival features not only student presentations and activities created in classrooms throughout the district - but also local cultural artisans, crafts people, storytellers, musicians, nonprofits and businesses with cultural / global connections. The event this school year is on April 29th and is free and open to the public. Approximately 100 students will be involved in the festival and based on last year we expect approximately 400 or more students, families and community members to attend the festivalAileen MaconiInternational Cultural Festivalhttps://nhs.newburyport.k12.ma.us/United StatesNewburyport, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/newburyporttag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4144562026-01-20T00:00:00Z2026-01-21T17:15:40ZSan Antonio, TX – Neurospicy SA Adult Socials1 in 5 people are neurodivergent, meaning they have a condition such as Autism, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Anxiety, OCD, and/or many other mental conditions that make their brains operate differently than the norm. 20% of the global population is neurodivergent and struggles to belong in a world that is not tailored to them.
Neurospicy SA Adult Socials provide safe, supportive spaces for neurodivergent adults (ages 18+) to build friendships, reduce social isolation, and strengthen mental well-being through peer-led programs and community engagement.
We help those who want friends and connections meet others with similar struggles and strengths to bond, learn from each other, and feel safe in a welcoming space.
Some of the goals we hope to achieve with the Adult Socials:
1) Reduce social isolation among neurodivergent adults
2) Improve the social-emotional health of neurodivergent adults, which then leads to better mental and physical health.
3) Provide safe, comfortable spaces for neurodivergent individuals to be themselves without masking.
4) Host social and collaborative special events for connecting neurodivergent adults
5) Be a place where neurodivergent adults can belong.
During the socials, participants can:
1) Connect with peers who share lived experiences.
2) Join inclusive community activities that encourage belonging.
3) Build mutual support networks that nurture growth and confidence.
4) Celebrate neurodiversity in a welcoming, judgment-free environment.
We're a mid-sized meetup group right now, and have been hosting social events for a year now. We're in the planning stages of forming a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit.
Meredith MarksNeurospicy SA Adult Socialshttps://www.neurospicysa.org/events/adult-socialsUnited StatesSan Antonio, TXhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sanantoniotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4278182026-01-20T00:00:00Z2026-02-04T19:15:16ZIpswich, MA – Community Hearts and Connections Play is the Way would like to promote 2 community building ideas to be funded through the Awesome Ipswich grant.
1. Conversation Hearts and Connections (February)
We would love to facilitate a community art project that focuses on kindness and neighborhood connections around Valentines day. We will purchase blank conversation heart lawn signs and curate several community decorating events. We will provide lawn signs and durable weather proof markers and encourage participants to draw joyful designs or write kind messages to neighbors then post on their lawn. Retail stores can post them too, and may also function as pick up locations for residents who couldn't make it to the decorating events.
2. The Week of The Young Child (April)
Last year we had a resounding success and squeezed a lot of community programming our of the $500 received from Awesome Ipswich. The funding would go to supplies for pop-up art studio events, Zumis Art Show supplies, musician Friday Family fun night event and promotional materials, Kerry Zagarella Community Hearts and Connections United StatesIpswich, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ipswichtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3667942026-01-20T00:00:00Z2026-03-10T00:20:06ZIpswich, MA – Take me on your Hike!Recently we were at the New England Botanical Gardens and noticed that they had activity backpacks for kids and adults to increase the interaction with nature, creativity and community. We are in conversations with their education department to learn from their experiences and create our own bags based on our combined educational experiences, our love of the natural world and the creation of art.
Ipswich is well known for its dedication to providing Open Space land for the community. In addition, Ipswich can boast state and local forests, and many land preserves owned by The Trustees. We are surrounded by the natural world. We hope that these bags will be utilized by Ipswich residents; those that are familiar with being in these natural locations, or for those who may have never been on any of these properties.
We would like to create backpacks (for kids) and tote bags (for adults) to check out of our public library to bring on hikes.
Get Outside Bags contents:
laminated maps of Open Space in Ipswich
laminated ID sheets for local trees, plants, and animals
laminated tic check advice
blank notebook
crayons
watercolors
clipboard
Observation tools: magnifying lens and prism microscope
Seasonal Activity cards (kids)
How to watercolor paint instructional book (adults)
Kerry zagarellaTake me on your Hike!United StatesIpswich, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ipswichtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4490972026-01-20T00:00:00Z2026-01-21T04:06:22ZPortland, OR – Redirection Not Correction Youth Advisory CouncilThe mission of FreeNow 21 (FN21) is to empower youth and families to develop the skills, habits, and confidence needed to make healthy life choices and build thriving financial futures. Founded and led by individuals with lived experience of incarceration and community violence, the organization is grounded in a philosophy of redirection, not correction—helping people channel their ambition, resilience, and leadership toward stability and opportunity.
FN21 delivers financial literacy, life-skills education, and relationship-based mentoring for Black/African American and Latino/x youth and families, as well as incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. These communities are disproportionately impacted by economic exclusion, criminal legal system involvement, and underinvestment, yet possess deep strengths, informal networks, and cultural knowledge that shape our approach. Programming is facilitated by credible messengers who share the lived experience with participants, allowing for authentic engagement, honest dialogue, and practical guidance rooted in real-world realities.
FN21 plan to launch a Youth Advisory Council in Spring, 2026 with the intent to bring forward the voices, experiences, and wisdom of past participants into the growing design of the non-profit. Because many participants have experienced harm or exclusion from traditional institutions, engagement begins with meeting these young people where they are—physically and culturally—rather than expecting them to conform to institutionalized systems and rules. Providing former participants with the opportunity to play a leadership role in developing and leading the organization is imperative for growth of FreeNow21.Troy RamseyRedirection Not Correction Youth Advisory CouncilUnited StatesPortland, ORhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/portlandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3948892026-01-19T00:00:00Z2026-03-11T20:07:50ZPittsburgh, PA – Stoop Games @ The RotundaStoop Games @ The Rotunda will bring intergenerational games and cultural activities to the Portico and front steps of The Rotunda. As BOOM prepares to move into this space over the next three years, these free community engagement events will help introduce the project to neighbors, gather community feedback, and offer accessible cultural programming across genres and disciplines.
The front of the building currently functions as a PRT bus stop, school bus pick-up point, and crosswalk/stoplight; creating a naturally high-traffic intersection with safe, spacious areas that are perfect for outdoor fun. Stoop Games activities will include on-site DJs, live music, bubble machines, karaoke, sidewalk chalk, temporary basketball hoops, jump rope, and more.
BOOM Concepts has secured its permanent future home at The Rotunda, located at 333 N. Negley Avenue, a former synagogue that will become the Rotunda Collaborative. This new space will serve as BOOM’s cultural center and headquarters, expanding its capacity to support Black artists and creative entrepreneurs. The move strengthens BOOM’s long-standing commitment to field-building, knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and storytelling rooted in the Penn Avenue Arts & Commercial District.Darrell KinselStoop Games @ The Rotundahttps://boomuniverse.co/United StatesPittsburgh, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/pittsburghtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4505052026-01-19T00:00:00Z2026-01-20T00:38:32ZPoughkeepsie, NY – TheLoveQuestFoundation Presents Voice Of A DreamerVoice of a Dreamer is an intimate documentary portrait exploring creativity, purpose, and resilience through the lived experience of artist and visual storyteller Rashaad McNeil. The film traces the emotional and psychological terrain of dreaming boldly while navigating personal, professional, and cultural pressures—revealing how art becomes both refuge and release.
Rooted in honesty and visual lyricism, Voice of a Dreamer examines the cost of pursuing purpose, the quiet battles behind creativity, and the power of expression as survival.
Rashaad McNeil is the CEO of RM Media Productions. An award-winning videographer and visual artist, McNeil transforms stories into visuals that resonate and deliver connection, authenticity, and results. His work has been featured by BET, NPR, American Dream TV Network, NAACP Image Awards, and Vibe Magazine. He also serves as the contracted Director of Photography for Beast Philanthropy.
LaMonique Hamilton is an Emmy-winning producer, writer, and the Founder & CEO of Centre Creative Company LLC. She previously served as President of CreatorGlobal and as Production Manager for MrBeast, where she led global creative operations and managed large-scale productions viewed by millions worldwide. She is also the author of Shift: Essays from a Woman in Progress (2024). Through her work, LaMonique is committed to storytelling that uplifts marginalized voices, sparks dialogue, and inspires transformation.
LaMonique Hamilton is also the producer of The Love Quest Foundation's documentary that highlights our origin story for over twenty-five years, where our founder experienced domestic violence as a student athlete in college and began her advocacy journey that continues to this day as her daughter just celebrated her twenty-fourth birthday on New Year's Day. Josayne's life work has been dedicated to the life of her family and the youth and communities she serves.
Our youth participants will work hands-on with LaMonique on both projects.Josayne Anderson-TejeraTheLoveQuestFoundation Presents Voice Of A Dreamerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYyhaJqQO8wUnited StatesPoughkeepsie, NYhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/poughkeepsietag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4044872026-01-18T00:00:00Z2026-01-22T07:35:07ZSanta Cruz, CA – Empowering Teens to Build Healthy RelationshipsWalnut Avenue Family & Women’s Center is seeking $1,000 to support a Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month initiative that brings healthy-relationship education, interactive workshops, and empowerment activities directly to local youth. These funds help us reach teens where they already are—on school campuses—giving them tools that build confidence and emotional safety at a pivotal stage of their development.
Why is it awesome? Because this project supports teens long before challenges arise. Healthy relationship education is one of the most effective ways to prevent harm and strengthen well-being. Many adults who experience relationship violence first encountered unhealthy dynamics as teens, which shows how important it is to reach youth early with positive, practical tools.
Our advocates meet teens on campus and use trauma-informed, interactive workshops to explore what healthy love looks like, recognize early red flags, understand boundaries and consent, and learn how to seek help for themselves or a friend.
Why is it uniquely awesome? Because we use a creative, youth-centered approach. Instead of lectures, we use art and hands-on activities as entry points. Teens build “Love Is…” boards, design posters, create anonymous question boxes, and participate in role-plays that make learning safe, engaging, and memorable. These activities shift attitudes far more effectively than traditional presentations because teens are actively creating—not passively listening.
A single workshop can spark powerful “lightbulb moments”: a teen realizing jealousy isn’t love, a friend recognizing manipulation, someone discovering they deserve boundaries, or a student feeling safe enough to ask, “Where can I get help?” This program also sparks natural peer-to-peer change. Teens influence each other more than adults ever could. This project gives teens the chance to start their relationship journeys with knowledge, confidence, and safety—skills they will carry for life.Walnut Avenue Family & Women’s CenterEmpowering Teens to Build Healthy Relationshipshttps://www.wafwc.org/events-1United StatesSanta Cruz, CAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/santacruztag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3853122026-01-15T00:00:00Z2026-02-24T14:26:08ZKingston – Helmets 4 KidsThink First is an organization that seeks to prevent brain and spinal cord injuries through increasing education, awareness and tools for youth in the Kingston area. Every year we aim to donated 100 helmets to low income families for bicycles other other sport/leisure to help keep people safe while they engage in meaningful physical activity. Bryce DonaldHelmets 4 Kidshttp://Thinkfirstkingston.caCanadaKingstonhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/kingston-ontag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4047142026-01-15T00:00:00Z2026-02-01T15:05:45ZCass Clay – “Sir Dragon’s Animal Kingdom” Children’s Book Author/artist Modern Man (who was voted “Best Local Artist” by the “High Plains Reader” on two occasions) passed away this year, and he left behind an unfinished children’s book that he had been working on for many years titled “Sir Dragon’s Animal Kingdom.” It tells the story of how Sir Dragon breaks out of the role that he’s expected to play (guarding treasure) and finds his true calling (saving and protecting the animals in his forest kingdom).
It was Modern’s hope that the book would be published and that all of the profits would go to children’s charities. I was Modern’s friend for many years, and he wrote the story on my computer, so I have the text. We found some of the artwork and many slides featuring the model of Sir Dragon among his possessions in his apartment after he passed away.
I would like to see “Sir Dragon’s Animal Kingdom” published as a posthumous tribute to my beloved friend, a chance for his other friends and fans to see some of his final artwork, as an inspiration to children to not be afraid to be themselves (which is the main message of the book), and possibly a chance to raise some funds in Modern’s name for a cause that he cared very deeply about.
I am a graphic designer and have experience in layout, design, and production of books. That’s why he worked with me on this project. I would like to see it through on his behalf. It would mean a great deal to me, to his family, and to fans of his work. Thank you for your time and consideration.Rebecca Blenkush“Sir Dragon’s Animal Kingdom” Children’s Book United StatesCass Clayhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/cassclaytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4339512026-01-15T00:00:00Z2026-01-30T04:49:00ZSingapore – CCAT Community Climate LabThe CCAT Community Climate Lab is a bilingual workshop (Thai and English) in Bangkok designed to strengthen climate action in the cultural sector through local knowledge. We created Creatives for Climate Action - Thailand (CCAT) in 2024 to address a major gap: most climate tools come from elsewhere and don’t reflect Southeast Asian contexts.
During the second edition of Bangkok Climate Action Week (BKKCAW) in 2026, the Lab will invite local creators and cultural workers to test climate tools hands-on. We focus on materials, waste, energy, mobility and the everyday choices that shape climate impacts. Participants will stress-test existing tools and show where adjustments are needed to better localize the toolkit.
This feedback becomes part of the 2026 CCAT Toolkit update, which is used by youth groups, small arts organizations and community spaces that want practical guidance rooted in their lived experience. For Singapore, this work strengthens the wider ASEAN ecosystem around culture and climate. It also speaks to the growing role of creativity in civic participation and public understanding of climate issues.
The Awesome Foundation grant helps cover R&D and labor to translate public input into real improvements in the next edition of the toolkit. It’s a small investment that supports a regional shift toward localized, grounded climate tools.
Susannah TantemsapyaCCAT Community Climate Labhttps://creativesforclimateaction.org/SingaporeSingaporehttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/singaporetag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4038872026-01-13T00:00:00Z2026-03-17T22:05:33ZPhiladelphia, PA – The Stained Glass Project of CultureTrustThe Stained Glass Project provides meaningful, community-centered arts education to high school students from across Philadelphia. As a free after-school program, we remove barriers to participation by offering all materials, instruction, transportation, and food at no cost. Students work alongside practicing artists and dedicated mentors to learn the craft of stained glass, developing technical skills, creative confidence, and a strong sense of belonging.
Our impact extends far beyond the studio. Each student-created window is donated to a nonprofit, school, community center, or mission-driven organization in Philadelphia and beyond. These installations brighten public spaces, honor local histories, and strengthen the visual identity of the neighborhoods they serve. Students see firsthand how their creativity contributes to the well-being of others, fostering pride, purpose, and a deeper connection to their city.
We serve a diverse group of young people—many of whom lack access to robust arts programming—and provide a safe, consistent environment where they can explore their potential and build meaningful relationships. Through mentorship, collaboration, and service, The Stained Glass Project supports both individual growth and community enrichment, demonstrating the powerful role youth arts can play in shaping a more vibrant and connected Philadelphia.Kate CrankshawThe Stained Glass Project of CultureTrusthttps://www.windowsthatopendoors.org/United StatesPhiladelphia, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/philadelphiatag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4359052026-01-13T00:00:00Z2026-03-23T04:33:20ZSan Francisco, CA – Climate Confessional (Talking Compost Bin)I want to bring a ridiculous, friendly “talking compost bin” to Lake Merritt and invite strangers to confess one tiny climate habit they’re struggling with:
“I still buy plastic water bottles.”
“I doom-scroll instead of organizing.”
“I forget my tote bag every single time.”
The bin “listens” (really: a human with a mic + a tiny printer) and spits out a receipt-sized “penance ticket”: a funny, doable micro-action that’s small enough to actually happen.
Examples:
“Your penance: carry one reusable bottle like it’s your emotional support animal.”
“Your penance: take one Lake Merritt lap instead of one doom-scroll.”
“Your penance: teach one friend the sacred art of sorting trash—dramatic hand gestures encouraged.”
“Your penance: pick up 10 pieces of litter and narrate it like a nature documentary.”
Then I’ll turn the anonymous confessions + penances into a free mini zine called:
“WE TRIED (LAKE MERRITT EDITION)”
…and hand it out at the lake + post it online as a little public artifact of shared humanity.
Why it’s awesome (and a little wtf):
It treats climate anxiety like a public, shared burden you can laugh at together—without minimizing the stakes.
It’s interactive, surprising, and slightly absurd (a sidewalk ritual people don’t see coming).
It’s easy to do with $1,000 and can repeat anywhere around the lake (and beyond).
It builds community cohesion through shared imperfection: not “perfect activists,” just people trying.
How it shows up at Lake Merritt:
Pop-up near a high-foot-traffic area (walker/jogger loop energy).
A simple sign: “CONFESS TO THE COMPOST. RECEIVE A PENANCE. FEEL 7% LIGHTER.”
People get a ticket + optional sticker: “I Confessed to the Compost @ Lake Merritt.”Priscilla DrawSandClimate Confessional (Talking Compost Bin)https://pdrawsand.wixsite.com/breakthrough-lilkageUnited StatesSan Francisco, CAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sftag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4133982026-01-13T00:00:00Z2026-01-13T23:24:28ZPhiladelphia, PA – NBNA MINI NURSE ACADEMY - SEPABNA CHAPTERI apologize for the duplication. I mistakingly hit apply before completing. The purpose of the NBNA Mini Nurse Academy is to provide students from traditionally underrepresented communities with opportunities and experiences with professional nursing careers. The goal is to increase awareness of nursing as a career option for students in 3rd through 6th grades who attend schools in underserved areas.
The NBNA Mini Nurse Academy aims to transform the nursing workforce by educating and inspiring youth from diverse populations to become nurses. A diverse workforce leads to better access and health care for underrepresented populations. The recruitment, retention, and graduation of a diverse nursing workforce is likely to increase access to culturally sensitive health care for all Americans.
The Academy curriculum includes three interactive content modules to introduce students to the profession of nursing and nursing activities. After completion of the modules, participants enter the follow-up period and interact with members of the local NBNA chapter in chapter and community activities. Local chapter nurses act as role models and mentors and maintain frequent contact as students continue on to middle and high schools.
Students will be introduced to discussions on topics such as Nursing Practices, Health Disparities, Diabetes, Heart & Lung Diseases, The Skeletal System, Nutrition, etc. Also included are hands on skills such as CPR, B/P assessment, Stop the Bleed, and participation in a student lead Research Project with outcome presentations at the closing ceremony. Along with a visit to a Simulation Lab in the Philadelphia area, selected students will also be given the opportunity to participate in local university programs that offer free tuition for nursing students. This program has been running in Philadelphia since 2022 beginning at Meade Elementary and have since runs at 3 other schools. The program has been featured in the media including ABC, CBS, and WHYY.Beverly JordanNBNA MINI NURSE ACADEMY - SEPABNA CHAPTERhttps://nbna.org/programs-committees/programs/mini-nurse-academy/United StatesPhiladelphia, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/philadelphiatag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3688472026-01-12T00:00:00Z2026-01-15T22:18:52ZHamilton-Wenham, MA – Peace Flag Community Unity DisplayMade from fabric scraps, an American Flag with peace at its core. Stands 4’ x 8’. I made one about 10 years ago when this country needed some serious peace and here we are again. It was displayed on my neighbors fence on Bay Road for several months and we had so many people comment on how beautiful it was and how it gave some a sense of hope in challenging political times. I feel like it’s time to recreate an improved model and would love to see it displayed somewhere more central in Hamilton Wenham though my neighbor would most likely be willing to display again. Juliana McWilliams Peace Flag Community Unity DisplayUnited StatesHamilton-Wenham, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/hamilton-wenhamtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4109162026-01-12T00:00:00Z2026-01-13T01:59:40ZOrlando, FL – Invisible Wall: 48-Hour Newsroom for Hidden StorieThe Invisible Wall is a temporary, two-day public storytelling experiment that turns an ordinary public space into a living, human-powered newspaper.
For 48 hours, I will install a simple physical “wall” made of cardboard and paper where passersby can anonymously write short messages about things that are missing from their lives — people, dreams, conversations, truth, connection.
Using a laptop and small printer, I will live-edit and format these raw messages with simple AI tools and print them into miniature “front pages” that get displayed in real time on the wall.
The result is a strange, quiet spectacle: strangers watching their invisible stories become visible.
This project is inspired by my own lived experience of searching for something personal that is absent — but the wall allows the public to become the storytellers.
It will exist briefly, then disappear, leaving behind only photos and shared memory.Francis XoagubInvisible Wall: 48-Hour Newsroom for Hidden StorieUnited StatesOrlando, FLhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/orlandotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3820102026-01-11T00:00:00Z2026-01-12T16:41:30ZNewburgh, NY – School Garden Shed ConstructionAt Land to Learn (LtL), we believe every child deserves the chance to dig in the dirt, grow their own food, and experience the joy of learning outdoors. At Gidney Avenue Memorial School (GAMS in Newburgh), we bring this to life by teaching monthly lessons with 19 classes throughout the school year. This year, we’re reaching 380 GAMS students in grades K–3, offering engaging, hands-on experiences that invite children to eat, grow, and cook with vegetables, make connections to food and health, and explore their natural environment.
LtL Educator, Thea Bjornson, cultivates the GAMS garden to be a safe, welcoming, and inspiring outdoor classroom. However, the garden currently lacks proper storage for tools and educational materials. Without a shed, supplies become disorganized, damaged, and must be transported daily, making it harder to manage the garden and facilitate lessons effectively.
To solve this, we plan to build a durable storage shed with help from local partner Zach Blaue (leader of the Awesome Newburgh–funded project Tools and Trees!), who has volunteered to design and lead the build. We’ll recruit volunteers from the school and broader community to assist, offering residents a hands-on way to support local students while learning basic construction skills. Zach’s cost estimate puts the project at around $1,500.
LtL is an independent nonprofit serving public schools across the Hudson Valley, including four in Newburgh. Our funding comes from district partnerships, grants, local businesses, and individual donors. Our SproutEd program reaches 2,774 students at 11 schools, and our limited budget doesn’t always cover infrastructure needs like benches and sheds.
We’re excited to collaborate with Zach and community volunteers, but need funding to make this project possible. With help from Awesome Newburgh, we can create a safe, organized space that helps us run our programming more smoothly and sustain a thriving garden classroom while strengthening community.
Nicole PortoSchool Garden Shed Constructionhttps://landtolearn.org/United StatesNewburgh, NYhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/newburghtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4387042026-01-11T00:00:00Z2026-01-12T16:40:50ZNewburgh, NY – Community Unity Project Community Unity Project (C.U.P.) is a Newburgh-based, grassroots initiative committed to strengthening community pride, cultural awareness, and civic engagement through inclusive public programming. Rooted in the lived experiences and history of Newburgh residents, C.U.P. was created to bring people together across neighborhoods, generations, and backgrounds to celebrate shared history while building a more unified future.
A cornerstone of our work is the Black History Month Community Unity Event, which serves as both a celebration and an educational platform. The event honors the contributions of African Americans locally and nationally, while highlighting Newburgh’s own Black leaders, artists, educators, veterans, activists, and youth. Through elements such as a community flag-raising, historical recognition, performances, speakers, and educational exhibits, the event creates a space for reflection, learning, and collective pride.
This initiative is especially important in Newburgh, a city rich in cultural diversity and history, yet often challenged by social and economic divides. C.U.P. intentionally uses public, visible events to foster unity, encourage dialogue, and strengthen trust between residents, community organizations, and local institutions. By centering Black history within a broader message of inclusion and shared humanity, the project helps bridge gaps and build stronger community relationships.
Beyond a single event, C.U.P. aims to create lasting impact by encouraging ongoing civic participation, youth involvement, and community collaboration. The Black History Month event serves as a catalyst—transforming celebration into sustained engagement and empowering residents to take pride in both their heritage and their city.Kamar EverettCommunity Unity Project http://Nuvotersmovement25@gmail.comUnited StatesNewburgh, NYhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/newburghtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4442152026-01-10T00:00:00Z2026-01-08T01:21:58ZKuala Lumpur – Dog shelter volunteering*DOG SHELTER VOLUNTEER*
📆 10 JAN (SATURDAY)
⏰ 10AM - 1PM
📍HULU LANGAT
ACTIVITIES :
1. Feed & Bath doggos
2. Gotong-Royong abit
3. Minor Maintenance Work
Snow wongDog shelter volunteeringMalaysiaKuala Lumpurhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/kualalumpurtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4130332026-01-08T00:00:00Z2026-01-27T21:32:47ZAnn Arbor, MI – Zine JamboreeIn March 2025, we (five organizers) hosted the first annual Ypsilanti zine festival, the Zine Jamboree. We had over 60 vendors and hundreds (estimated) of visitors trading, making, and buying zines and other art. We received such positive feedback--and enjoyed the experience so much ourselves--that we are hosting the second Zine Jamboree on March 28, 2025 at the same location, the Ypsilanti Freighthouse.
However, our sponsor for the artist fee informed us last year that their funding was a one time occurrence, fees for the Freighthouse have risen, and for accessibility purposes, we kept the application fees low. So, while we were able to use last year's vendor fees for a security deposit for the Freighthouse, we still have overhead costs. We are doubling the application fees to make the cost of running Zine Jamboree more sustainable in the future, but in the interim we are seeking additional funding sources.April ConwayZine Jamboreehttps://www.instagram.com/United StatesAnn Arbor, MIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ann-arbortag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4055802026-01-08T00:00:00Z2026-01-23T21:37:27ZSt. Paul, MN – Beatboxing & Songwriting with Sydney ClarkWe are pleased to announce our first grant of 2026! Sydney Clark, local female beatboxer and songwriter, will return to E-STEM Middle School for a residency & performance.
Last year, Sydney had the opportunity to teach her first school group lessons (six, one-hour sessions with each of my classes) and it was a huge success! The kids loved working with Sydney and have been asking when she's coming back.
This spring E-STEM Middle School will be collaborating on a series of beatboxing and songwriting lessons culminating in a performance at our school on May 13 and a potential second concert at the Landmark Center on April 2 as part of the SPPS SPARC Live & Direct Series.Jen CuffBeatboxing & Songwriting with Sydney Clarkhttps://estem.spps.org/staff-profile/~const-id/4372United StatesSt. Paul, MNhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/stpaultag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4119572026-01-07T00:00:00Z2026-01-07T18:53:39ZNewmarket – Human Trafficking CaseThis isn't exactly a project but I had the privilege of seeing the awesome foundation provide funds to persons in need and I was hoping you would consider a client. We have a 16 year old who was brought to Canada from Afghanistan. She was brought here by an Aunt and Uncle who doctored documents to get her here. Once she arrived she was forced into sex trafficking. Police became involved due to a domestic incident but all parties suspected more. VSY met with the girl several times and learned the above. We were able to get her to disclose to the police where charges were laid. After disclosing to the police the Taliban killed her father (just last week she learned of his death and her mother is in hiding in Afghanistan). The client is now in hiding here but has nothing to her name. As she was "sponsored" by her Aunt and Uncle she is not eligible for government sponsored programs. This young girl has been through so much and all she wants is to be safe and "go to school" to learn and have a better life. Gillian FreemanHuman Trafficking Casehttp://www.victimservices-york.orgCanadaNewmarkethttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/newmarket-ontariotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4267942025-12-31T00:00:00Z2026-01-08T04:18:15ZToronto – Training newer square dance callersWe are an active organization started in 1954 in Ontario to preserve and promote the traditional Canadian style of square and couple dancing. All our board members are volunteers and all our callers are volunteers. We all enjoy being physically active by dancing; no dancing experience necessary, just a desire to move and have fun!
Square dancing in the past was a male/female couples' activities. It has evolved to include dancing by position left or right rather than by male or female gender. Square dance moves can be done to any style of music and many dances/classes are a mix of traditional fiddle tunes and modern pop music. We have classes at community and seniors' centres throughout Ontario.
Many of our square dance callers are senior citizens; the Awesome Foundation funding will be used to pay fees to Caller Lab to train our younger callers, covering travel costs of younger callers to attend Caller Lab training sessions and purchasing training materials for younger callers to use. This will give incentives to younger callers to join or to enhance their skills. From time to time, funds permitting a token honorarium is given to a caller.Marion Barker, Treasurer, Canadian Old Tyme Square Dancing AssociationTraining newer square dance callershttps://sca.uwaterloo.ca/cotsdca/1Activities.htmlCanadaTorontohttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/torontotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4357652025-12-31T00:00:00Z2026-01-06T02:04:38ZOn the Water – Baltimore Open Water Swimmers (BOWS)Baltimore Open Water Swimmers (BOWS) is a new community-based entity with the vision of fostering a community of swimmers around Baltimore, promoting the sport of open water swimming, and advocating for a swimmable Baltimore harbor. We seek to celebrate our waterways as a place of connection, enjoyment, and pride—not just something we look at, but something we safely use.
In June 2024, I completed an unprecedented 24-mile swim from the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. My “Bay to Baltimore Swim” not only made history, but it served as a celebration of the decades long efforts to make Baltimore’s harbor a swimmable, recreational resource for the city. Becoming the first person to do a swim of this scale in these waterways, and championing my city, and girls and women in sport, was truly the honor of a lifetime. The swim was celebrated by city and state leaders, drew local, national and international media coverage and attention to how far the Patapsco River and Baltimore’s harbor has come after decades of environmental restoration and policy initiatives, and sparked public support and a growing excitement that BOWS was founded to build upon.
The mission of BOWS is to build an inclusive open water swimming community in Baltimore, promote safe and public access to the harbor, and celebrate Baltimore as a “swimmable city.” BOWS will host open water swims/races, community events, and build partnerships with other organizations focused on environmental progress and water safety. Through these events, partnerships, and community focused outreach, BOWS will help normalize and celebrate the idea that Baltimore’s water belongs to its people.
The opportunity is enormous: cities around the world are reclaiming waterways for public use, and Baltimore is ready to be part of that global movement. The challenge is that BOWS is brand new and founder-led. We are at the stage where modest startup support can help us do AWESOME things, in and out of the water.Katie PumphreyBaltimore Open Water Swimmers (BOWS)http://bmorebows.orgWorldwideOn the Waterhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/onthewatertag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4404932025-12-31T00:00:00Z2026-01-05T18:51:01ZDisability – Crips for eSims for Gaza: In Honor of Alice WongCrips for eSims for Gaza is a disability justice-led mutual aid project co-founded by Jane Shi, Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha, and Alice Wong to get life-sustaining internet access directly to Palestinians in Gaza. Amid repeated attacks on cellular and WiFi infrastructure, eSIMs allow people in Gaza to temporarily regain connectivity—helping families find one another, journalists document conditions on the ground, and communities remain in contact with the outside world. Launched on December 25, 2023, Crips for eSims for Gaza mobilizes disabled people and allies around the world to pool resources, fund eSIMs, and distribute them through trusted networks when traditional aid channels are blocked.
This award honors the legacy of Alice Wong, co-founder of the project, who understood Palestinian liberation as inseparable from disability justice and used her platform to amplify disabled Palestinian voices and refuse silence. Crips for eSims for Gaza continues Alice’s legacy of tangible solidarity—keeping people connected, visible, and alive in the face of erasure.Crips for eSims for GazaCrips for eSims for Gaza: In Honor of Alice Wonghttps://disabilityvisibilityproject.com/2023/12/25/crips-for-esims-for-gaza/WorldwideDisabilityhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/disabilitytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4035962025-12-31T00:00:00Z2026-01-05T15:03:41ZNew York City, NY – Teen Voices from the 5 BorosWe're excited to announce that our final grant of 2025 has been awarded to Projekt NYC's Teen Voices from the 5 Boros, a poetry event that will bring together 200 teen poets from every boro across the city. This year's event will culminate in a citywide poetry slam this spring, as well as a published anthology of teen poetry where every participant sees their work in print, creating a lasting record of their creativity and courage.
In their own words: _Projekt NYC is a youth‑focused nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people across New York City through creative expression, civic engagement, and community service. We create platforms for youth voices, provide opportunities for leadership, and build programs that help young people imagine and shape a better future for their communities._
_We’ll recruit poets through schools, libraries, and youth centers, ensuring diverse representation. We’ll host workshops and mentorship sessions to help teens refine their craft, and we’ll create a stage where their voices can shine. Every participant will walk away not only with a book in hand, but with the confidence that their words matter._
_This project shows perseverance because it began as a grassroots idea and has grown steadily despite limited resources. It shows integrity because we center youth voices, ensuring every poet regardless of background has a platform. And it shows passion because we believe teens deserve to be heard, celebrated, and remembered._
_When 200 young poets rise together, New York doesn’t just listen, it roars. Their words will echo across the city, reminding us all that creativity, courage, and connection are what make NYC truly awesome._
_Join us in uplifting NYC youth! Support our work by sharing our programs with local schools, families, and community groups, connecting us with partners who want to uplift youth voices. Subscribe to our newsletter at http://projektnyc.org to stay engaged with our initiatives and updated on our impact._
Theodore PsahosTeen Voices from the 5 Boroshttps://www.projektnyc.org/post/teen-voices-light-up-q-e-d-astoria-at-poetry-reading-and-anthology-launchUnited StatesNew York City, NYhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/nyctag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4101942025-12-31T00:00:00Z2026-02-05T02:38:23ZOttawa – Lone Mitten Project December’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to Caitlin Imrie to support the matching of lone mittens from across the city.
“Since so many people lose a single mitten or glove,” says Caitlin, “we wondered: if we collected individual mittens from residents and lost-and-founds across Ottawa, could we match them into wearable pairs?”
“Parents know the struggle of mismatched mittens, and mismatched pairs still keep hands warm. So our project tries to keep perfectly usable mittens and gloves out of landfills, and provide free, warm mittens to people who need them.”
Last winter, in the first year of the project, schools from all four school boards, the National Capital Commission, City of Ottawa community centres, shopping centres, and residents across the city donated thousands of mittens. Volunteers washed, sorted, and matched the more than 4,000 single mittens into 1,700 sets. This winter, the project is adding even more partners.
“We hope this project encourages residents to rethink the value of everyday items,” says Caitlin, “and demonstrates how community-driven initiatives can make a real, positive impact.”
To find out where you can drop off lone mittens, or to get involved – the project is always looking for more volunteers for mitten collection, washing, sorting, matching, and more – visit [osean.org/blog/lone-mitten-2026] (https://www.osean.org/blog/lone-mitten-2026).
Caitlin is a retired federal public servant and an active volunteer with the [Ottawa South Eco Action Network (OSEAN)] (https://www.osean.org/), which hosts the project together with Eco West Enders.Caitlin ImrieLone Mitten Project https://www.osean.org/blog/lone-mitten-2026CanadaOttawahttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ottawatag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4013482025-12-23T00:00:00Z2025-12-24T10:32:24ZYerevan – Սավառնիր երկնքում 1 - Գյումրու 10 դպրոցների 100 երեխաներ գալիս են Միտ կրթական կենտրոն։
2 - Կրթական կենտրոնում մի քանի օրվա ընթացքում սովորում են սավառնակ պատրաստել։
3 - Իրենց պատրաստած սավառնակնորով մրցում են միմյանց դեմ։
4 - Վերջում՝ ամենագեղեցիկ սավառնակներ պատրաստած երեխաները հնարավորություն կունենան մասնակցելու քաղաքի զարդարմանը՝ իրենց աշխատանքները կախելով քաղաքի տարբեր փողոցներում։«Միտ» կրթական կենտրոնՍավառնիր երկնքում https://www.facebook.com/share/1HfBPo4DR7/ArmeniaYerevanhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/yerevantag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3963682025-12-18T00:00:00Z2025-12-19T02:12:31ZGloucester, MA – We Were There We are three members of the Cemeteries Advisory Committee and have all been involved, over the last three years in providing public tours and information about the people who lived here during the Revolution.
From that has grown the idea that we would like to make further use of all the information we've discovered and connect to the schools to help our students realize that this period was one of lively activity here and that traces of those people and time can be found today.
We all feel that these ephemeral projects are innately interesting and, having done all the work and research to support the presentations, sharing this information, connected to activities and resources for school students that utilize the historical and accessible sites in Gloucester, would be a positive and more lasting application of our work.Cindi Williams, Melissa Hobbs, Carol KellyWe Were There United StatesGloucester, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/gloucestertag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4043582025-12-17T00:00:00Z2025-12-18T20:37:31ZChicago, IL – Canine-assisted literacy programs: CPS K-2nd GradeSitStayRead is Chicago's sole literacy organization leveraging the power of the human-canine bond to motivate emergent readers in kindergarten through second grade to develop a passion for reading that will lead them to become proficient, curious, and enthusiastic readers. SitStayRead advances children's literacy and builds confidence in young readers with its engaging, evidence-based curricula which incorporate social-emotional learning.
Classroom residencies and family literacy events are enriched by individual and small group interaction with trained volunteer Book Buddies and Certified Reading Assistance Dog Teams. SitStayRead is a no-cost vendor for Chicago Public Schools, and also serves the Chicago Public Library, charter and parochial schools, and community organizations in our prioritized communities.
More than 90% of our students live in low-income households, and attend schools where 60% of third-graders, according to the ISBE’s annual report, score below the national average in reading; in low-income CPS schools the 2024-25 average was only 21% proficiency.
In 2024-25 SitStayRead dramatically increased its reach, serving more than 1,800 emerging readers, upon reentering Chicago Public Schools after a 4.5 year hiatus, and establishing a new, ongoing partnership with the Chicago Public LIbrary’s Children's Services and Family Engagement. Programs are delivered by a lean staff of 3.5, a growing cohort of seasonal contracted Program Leads, and a rapidly expanding corps of trained, volunteer Book Buddies and Certified Reading Dog Teams. Funding from the FDC Foundation will support our work in the 2025-26 school year, as we aim to reach 2,000 students and distribute more than 7,500 new books.
In the fall of 2025, SSR has served more than twice as many classrooms and library branches as in the same period last year, due to a new organizational structure that includes seasonal Program Leads during the academic year, and a growing volunteer corps.
This grant allows us to hire an additional Program Lead, ideally bilingual, so we can move a 2nd grade classroom on Chicago's west or south side off the growing no-cost residency waitlist list in early 2026. Supporting current or recent graduate students from the same neighborhoods we serve pursuing work in the education, social work, and mental health sectors is a secondary goal for this strategy of scaling.
We receive each child as they come to us, building on their assets to move forward in their journey with language.
Deirdre HarrisonCanine-assisted literacy programs: CPS K-2nd Gradehttps://www.sitstayread.org/United StatesChicago, ILhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicagotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3874542025-12-15T00:00:00Z2025-12-13T23:33:52ZCass Clay – Matthew's Voice ProjectImagine facing homelessness while trying to finish high school. Matthew’s Voice Project stands beside these students every step of the way. Partnering with school social workers, we provide the essentials — rides, clothing, support — that help them stay in school and graduate. Because every diploma is more than a piece of paper; it’s a pathway to stability and hope. These students truly are the real MVPs. Calli Adamson BakkenMatthew's Voice Projecthttp://matthewsvoiceproject.comUnited StatesCass Clayhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/cassclaytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3813812025-12-15T00:00:00Z2025-12-16T01:18:02ZLos Angeles, CA – A Greater Me Foster Youth ProgramFoster youth in Los Angeles often enter the system due to circumstances beyond their control—neglect, abuse, and abandonment. These youth face significant barriers, including mental health struggles, low high school graduation rates, and high interaction with the juvenile justice system and homelessness.
“A Greater Me” is a 9-week empowerment program designed by Urban Uplift, Inc. to provide foster and underserved male youth age 14-21 with life-changing access to mentorship, professional development, and practical life skills. In 2025, our pilot program enrolled 40 youth and graduated 20 with overwhelmingly positive feedback. In 2026, we aim to expand this impact. The program integrates wellness education and access to healthy food through our expanding community garden, where youth learn to cultivate, harvest, and prepare nutritious produce as part of their personal growth.
Our Project Aims, Goals & Community Involvement:
“A Greater Me” aims to break the cycle of poverty, isolation, and disenfranchisement by equipping foster youth with the tools, connections, and confidence they need to thrive.
Our 9-week program will take place from January 3 to February 28, 2026, and will include:
• Workshops led by volunteer professionals: life coaches, HR executives, lawyers, DCFS social workers, healthcare workers, accountants, etc.
• Gardening & Wellness Education: participants learn to grow vegetables —Workshops address food scarcity and teach youth how sustainable gardening can provide affordable, healthy meals for their families.
• Vocational career exposure in barbering, plumbing, electrical work, construction, and other trades.
• Job and college readiness include career panels and presentations from community colleges and the armed forces.
• Life skills education: entrepreneurship, creative writing, etiquette, law enforcement protocol, and financial literacy.
• Personal development: self-care, mental health, &civic engagement.
• Peer mentorship, hot meals & clothing.Aixa MoranA Greater Me Foster Youth Programhttp://www.agmprogram.orgUnited StatesLos Angeles, CAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/los-angelestag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4108512025-12-15T00:00:00Z2025-12-16T19:44:12ZCass Clay – DGF ELL Family NightI am hoping to host a family night for the families of the students in my ELL (English Language Learners/Multi-language Learners) classes at DGF. I would like to host BINGO, serve food, have games, invite community organizations to share their resources, collaborative art, and more.
This event would be solely for the families of the students who are enrolled in the ELL program at DGF. This is about 25 students, but the total people invited would be over 70. Many of the students that I serve have large families, but not all of their siblings are in ELL. My plan is to have the students very involved in the planning process and use it as a way to teach new vocabulary, concepts, and skills.
I am hoping to host the event on a Saturday when we can have the best turn out. I know that many of the parents work night shifts, so a weeknight evening might not be the most accessible. I intend to reach out to parents for their input and availability as well.Hannah GriffinDGF ELL Family Nighthttp://N/AUnited StatesCass Clayhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/cassclaytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4036802025-12-15T00:00:00Z2026-03-11T19:51:43ZPittsburgh, PA – YVAC EducationThe YVAC Education Fund is a youth-and student-led collective of artists, organizers, and mutual aid practitioners who gather year-round to listen deeply, meet basic needs, and create platforms for young people and their families to design their own solutions to the social issues they face.
They are relaunching the Neighbor2Neighbor Initiative in Pittsburgh, a mobile mutual aid and food distribution project that brings free groceries, essentials, and care directly into neighborhoods across the county.
Music, art, and youth creativity draw residents together during a pop up-event, while mutual aid ensures everyone leaves with what they need to thrive. This model strengthens neighborhood trust, supports youth leadership, and sparks collective problem-solving. Each pop-up event also creates safe, joyful spaces where youth, families, and neighbors connect through music, art, and community engagement. This model strengthens local networks, supports youth leadership, encourages neighborhood collaboration, and ensures residents can meet basic needs while building collective power and resilience.Davonte JohnsonYVAC EducationUnited StatesPittsburgh, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/pittsburghtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3935292025-12-11T00:00:00Z2025-12-11T15:19:07ZAnn Arbor, MI – Great Lakes Plover ProjectThe Great Lakes Plover Project (GLPP) is a Michigan-based nonprofit dedicated to protecting, restoring, and educating the public about the federally endangered Great Lakes population of the Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus). Through habitat stewardship, volunteer engagement, community education, and collaborative research partnerships, GLPP works to safeguard nesting sites, reduce human disturbance, expand public awareness, and cultivate the next generation of conservation leaders across the Great Lakes region.
GLPP’s efforts are grounded in science-based management, community collaboration, and a deep commitment to sustaining the long-term recovery of this iconic shorebird.
The Great Lakes Piping Plover is one of the most endangered bird populations in North America. With only 70–80 breeding pairs across the entire Great Lakes shoreline in a typical year, the population remains vulnerable to:
Habitat degradation and shoreline development
Human disturbance during nesting season
Off-leash dogs and recreation-related nest loss
Predation pressure from increasing predator populations
Storm damage and climate-related shoreline change
Lack of public awareness around beach-nesting birds
Although recovery efforts have made significant progress, long-term protection will require expanded stewardship, education, and monitoring throughout the Great Lakes basin. Many beaches still lack trained volunteers, local outreach, or protection measures.
GLPP fills this gap by providing community-based conservation, volunteer coordination, youth engagement, and on-the-ground support where agencies and park units cannot meet rising needs alone.
The Board of Directors includes individuals with expertise in conservation, nonprofit leadership, community outreach, education, and financial stewardship. GLPP has a dedicated cadre of volunteers to support the mission and vision of the non profit, bringing a myriad of personal and professional experiences to the organization.
Erica AdamsGreat Lakes Plover ProjectUnited StatesAnn Arbor, MIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ann-arbortag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/4067932025-12-11T00:00:00Z2025-12-16T22:37:08ZSydney – Breaking The Silence: Tackling Men’s Mental HealthBreaking the Silence is an initiative by African Professionals of Australia (APA) designed to address mental-health stigma among men of African heritage living and working in Sydney. In many African communities, mental health remains a “taboo subject” often seen as a weakness or something to be hidden. As a result, too many men suffer in silence, especially the working demographic aged 25-45 years old.
Research indicates that young African Australians face a dramatically higher risk of serious mental-health issues: an article published by University of Melbourne pointed out that “African Australian migrants are at ten times higher risk of experiencing mental health issues compared to the general population” (University of Melbourne, 2023). Additional research shows African migrant men under-utilise formal mental-health services due to stigma, cultural beliefs, and structural barriers (Flinders University, 2021).
The event aims to create a safe and culturally sensitive space where men from diverse African backgrounds living and working in Sydney can come together, open up about mental health, and explore real solutions. The event will invite partners from NSW Health and other multicultural communities to build connections and link the participants to resources they can access at any time.
By fostering conversation, sharing resources and building connection, we aim to normalise discussions around mental wellbeing and empower men from CALD backgrounds to seek support when they need it.
Event Overview
Date: Second week of March 2026
Venue: Sydney CBD
Time: 6pm-8pm
Format: The event will be facilitated by Dr Xavier Mulenga, a qualified mental-health expert, and a panel of community leaders with lived and professional experience.
Target Audience: Open to all multicultural communities and targeting men from an African heritage living and working in Sydney
Expected Guests: 40-50 Tendai MbirimiBreaking The Silence: Tackling Men’s Mental Healthhttp://www.apaau.comAustraliaSydneyhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sydneytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3943542025-12-11T00:00:00Z2025-12-12T16:47:38ZCleveland, OH – Caregiver Empowerment SeriesOur awesome project is the L.E.A.D. Special Education Caregiver Empowerment Series and is dedicated to transforming special education parents from overwhelmed observers into confident, knowledgeable advocates for their children. Special education law is complex, often feeling like an impenetrable fortress of acronyms and legal jargon. This complexity creates a significant barrier, leaving dedicated caregivers feeling isolated, stressed, and disempowered during critical educational meetings. When parents aren't fully equipped, their child’s educational plan often falls short.
We dismantle this barrier by translating complicated legal requirements into accessible, easy-to-understand workshops and creating a vital support community. Caregiver Workshops: These are practical, hands-on sessions where we focus on core advocacy skills: breaking down the mechanics of IEPs and 504s, teaching parents how to write effective, measurable S.M.A.R.T. Goals, and ensuring they understand the legal requirements for services like Extended School Year. Casual Caregiver Nights: We recognize that advocacy is exhausting. These informal nights promote community, connection, and peer support, forging a much-needed "village" where parents can share experiences and reduce feelings of isolation. Every single workshop from the in-depth IEP Binder Night to the casual community meetups is offered 100% FREE of charge and hosted both in-person and virtually. This removes financial, geographic, and transportation barriers, ensuring access for all families who need it most. This is a good place to add that we provide accommodations as needed to remove further barriers. We don't just teach theory; we provide practical tools that lead directly to better educational outcomes for children with special needs. Informed parents result in stronger IEPs, and stronger IEPs result in better educational progress. Gina GreenawaltCaregiver Empowerment Serieshttp://www.discover-lead.comUnited StatesCleveland, OHhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/clevelandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3679632025-12-11T00:00:00Z2025-12-12T16:48:12ZCleveland, OH – Feeding our NeighborsTwice a month at W. 55th and Storer in Cleveland, We Think 4 a Change activates more than a food bank—it ignites a movement. Rooted in our mission to empower people living with HIV to lead, advocate, and thrive, this program is a living testament to what happens when equity, innovation, and community converge.
WT4AC’s Food Bank delivery isn’t just about distributing groceries—it’s about redistributing power. Clients living with HIV aren’t just recipients; they’re leaders. Through stipended service roles, they guide logistics, welcome neighbors, prepare meals, and share knowledge. Their lived experience shapes every detail, from the layout of the tables to the tone of the conversations. It’s peer-led, dignity-driven, and radically effective.
At each delivery, fresh produce, shelf-stable essentials, and culturally relevant ingredients are offered with care. But when neighbors hesitate to take unfamiliar items—like zucchini—WT4AC leans into creativity. We cook it. We serve it. We share the recipe. The zucchini noodle soup? A runaway hit. Light, nourishing, and full of flavor, it became a symbol of transformation: turning uncertainty into delight, and unfamiliarity into empowerment.
This culinary curiosity is matched by strategic outreach. HIV prevention resources, leadership development opportunities, and health equity messaging are seamlessly integrated into the flow. Flyers, QR codes, and warm conversations spark new possibilities—whether it’s linking someone to care, inviting them into advocacy, or simply reminding them they matter.
At W. 55th and Storer, twice a month, WT4AC proves that food justice is more than access—it’s agency. It’s what happens when a community refuses invisibility and builds power through every shared meal, every new recipe, every act of care. This is mutual aid reimagined. This is We Think 4 a Change.Michelle Jackson RollinsFeeding our Neighborshttp://wethink4achange.comUnited StatesCleveland, OHhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/cleveland