DaVinci Maker Labs
Introducing Disadvantaged Youth to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
Fast Facts
Location:
Houston, TX
Sponsored by:
James Lavin
Grant Years:
2020
Category:
Job Skills
Website:
How DaVinci Maker Labs Is Making a Difference
DaVinci Maker Labs introduces youth from disadvantaged circumstances to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects and maker technology so they can access high technology careers.
Work of DaVinci Labs
- Provides hands-on maker-space access, classes and workshops in science, engineering and fabrication for young learners.
- Trains educators and community mentors to deliver STEM-enriched programming in under-resourced settings.
- Works to make high-technology fields accessible by lowering barriers (equipment scarcity, materials costs, limited skill-training options) for students in underserved socio-economic areas.
- Builds pathways from maker learning to innovation, and supports acquisition of career skills in design, prototyping and technology.
- Leverages partnerships with schools and local communities to embed maker culture and STEM readiness beyond formal classrooms.
Initiatives Supported by Project Redwood
2020: $30,000 to fund a program to train teachers on STEM topics so they can serve more students, specifically in disadvantaged areas.