Vera's Birthday Wish: STEM Kits for Kids

It’s My Birthday — and I’m Starting a New Mission

As many of you know, I dedicate most of my free time to volunteering in Russian-speaking parent communities and at youth robotics competitions. My goal is to serve as a guide for families navigating the incredible world of education in the United States.

Every year on my birthday, I set a new goal. This year, I’m taking a big step forward:

In addition to helping families improve their children’s education, I’m now launching a new initiative — to introduce more kids to the exciting world of robotics.

Why robotics? Because it teaches critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity — essential skills for the future. But many children, especially those new to the country or from underserved communities, have never had a chance to experience it.

Today, I’m asking for your support as I purchase the very first robotics demo kits (like VEX IQ and LEGO SPIKE) that I’ll use to introduce kids to hands-on STEM learning. These kits will help children explore, build, and dream — and maybe even take their first steps toward becoming future engineers or inventors.

If you were thinking of sending me a birthday greeting, I would be truly grateful if instead you helped me bring this vision to life. Every contribution helps — big or small.

Thank you for believing in this mission. And in me.

With gratitude,

Vera