By Michele Robertson
The area non-profit Inspired by Science is hosting an Adult STEM night aimed at engaging adults in science along with raising funds for their annual summer camp. STEM After Dark will be held 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, at the Carlsbad Museum, 418 W Fox St.
“STEM After Dark was created for two purposes: to help raise funds for our program and to make people more aware of our educational mission. The funds raised will go toward keeping costs low for families so that all children, regardless of their financial status, can have numerous opportunities for enlightening STEM education,” said Deena Antiporda, executive director for Inspired by Science.
“STEM After Dark is an adult STEM night open to anyone 21 and older. Participants will take part in hands-on STEM activities, bid on items in a silent auction, and have the chance to purchase raffle tickets. All of this will take place while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Cocktail attire is requested,” she said.
Inspiration comes in many different ways for kids and adults. Sometimes, it takes seeing an idea put into action elsewhere to discover how it can be adapted for use in one’s own life. “A Board member heard of a STEM event for adults at a large city museum. This gave us an idea to host a STEM fundraiser for Inspired by Science that is for adults. We’ve seen many of our students’ parents enjoy the activities at our workshops as much as the kids, so we have developed a plan for a fun night for adults to participate in hands-on STEM activities,” Antiporda said.
“Adults serve as role models in children’s lives. When adults actively participate in STEM, they demonstrate the value of critical thinking and curiosity. Adults can inspire children to pursue an interest in science and cultivate a positive attitude toward lifelong learning,” said board member Therese Rodriguez.
“I am looking forward to this becoming an annual event that continues to support Inspired by Science’s STEM initiatives, which positively impact the community of Carlsbad today and tomorrow,” added Rodriguez.
Antiporda shared information about the annual summer camp. The first Inspired by Science Camp was held in 2014. The camp is limited to 100 kids ages 7-12. The limit is to guarantee the organization has enough volunteers to ensure everyone has a fun and educational experience. During camp week, campers work on hands-on activities that teach basic STEM concepts. During one of the evenings, a program is hosted by the National Cave and Karst Research Institute (NCKRI) that showcases their areas of expertise. A Family STEM Night concludes camp on the evening of the last camp day. Campers spend 12-plus hours with the staff of volunteers, and it’s always a great time.
Inspired by Science has impacted over 10,000 children so far. By offering hands-on experiences, the organization helps inspire kids and adults alike with the wonders of STEM. Fueled by volunteers, Inspired by Science will continue to inspire people of all ages by offering opportunities to engage in STEM activities.
To sponsor an activity or food table for the STEM After Dark fundraiser or to become a sponsor
of the program, contact Deena Antiporda at (575) 302-6694 or send an email to
contactus@inspiredbyscience.org. The Sponsorship Package is available on the organization’s website at www.inspiredbyscience.org and lists the different levels of giving for the program in general.
Tickets for the event are limited and went on sale on January 6. To purchase tickets and learn more about Inspired by Science, visit their website at www.inspiredbyscience.org or the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/inspiredbysciencecarlsbad/.
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