Help Us Keep Free STEM Workshops Running

Every donation helps provide hands-on kits so students can learn by building.

Hello! My name is Om Ramanathan, a student at Scotch Plains–Fanwood High School and the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Chapter Leader for STEM Enrichment of New Jersey , a student-led nonprofit dedicated to inspiring STEM learning across our community.

I’m passionate about engineering and STEM education. This year, I decided to turn that passion into action by conducting FREE, hands-on STEM workshops for younger students in our community. I’m working alongside Letizia Lavelli, a student at UCVTS and our Event Manager, to help plan and run these workshops.

A few workshops have already been scheduled to be hosted at the Fanwood library. These sessions are designed to be welcoming, beginner-friendly, and engaging, especially for kids who may not otherwise have access to STEM materials or programs.

What students do in our workshops

We plan to evolve based on student interest and include:

• Simple block coding workshops (simple logic implementation)

• LEGO Technic/robotics builds (motors, sensors, gears, motion)

• Age-appropriate science experiments

• Snap Circuits (circuits, current, switches, and simple electronics)

Why we’re fundraising

Since the workshops are free, we rely on donations to buy and restock stationery and supplies, Snap Circuits parts, Mindstorm kits, LEGO pieces, experiment materials, storage/organization bins, and printed handouts, so every student can fully participate without needing to bring materials from home. If we have enough, we will also give out certificates and prizes for participation and innovation.

Our commitment to transparency

We’ll share updates on our website Events page with location, workshop details and attendance as we continue.

How you can help

If you’re able to donate, you’ll be directly supporting hands-on STEM access for kids in our community. If you are unable to donate right now, please consider sharing this fundraiser and spreading the word. Every share helps us reach someone who may be able to contribute.

Thank you so much for believing in young learners and helping us keep these workshops free, fun, and accessible.

With gratitude,

Om Ramanathan

Letizia Lavelli