COLA STEM Initiative

Circle of Light Associates (COLA) 501c3 Non-Profit Organization, located in North St. Louis, MO, understands the importance of our children receiving an education, as well as attending secondary education. After-school programs are being discontinued due to budget cuts in the school districts and can have a negative impact on all children, especially on our under-served children in the area. To help eliminate learning deficiencies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, COLA has started the COLA STEM Initiative.

COLA is partnering with FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) to increase learning within our community. FIRST® was founded by Dean Kamen with the mission to show students of all ages that science, technology and problem-solving are not only fun and rewarding, but are proven paths to successful careers and a bright future for all of us. (www.firstinspires.org)

Mission

Our mission is to inspire young people to be “stand-out” leaders in the community.

As a result of participation in COLA Prep, FIRST® Lego League Jr., FIRST® Lego League and STEM Workshops, team members should:

· learn Basic Machine design and Computer programming

· learn how to work on a team with a positive attitude

· enhance Presentation and Communication skills

· learn Time management and project management

· increase Community Involvement

· spark an Interest in learning

FIRST® Vision

"To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology heroes."

Dean Kamen, Founder of FIRST (www.firstinspires.org)

COLA STEM Initiative Vision

“To see ALL children achieve success and utilize their talents and gifts and in-turn, reach back to foster another child to success.”

Our programs are designed to encourage individual gifts to manifest and promote a team environment. We utilize strengths, identify and overcome weaknesses, and build confidence and courage in each team member.