YMWIC May 2024 Newsletter | | |
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YMWIC Provides Life-Changing Experiences for our Scholars | |
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
~ Benjamin Franklin, American Polymath or writer, publisher, inventor, statesman, and diplomat
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MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO
Greetings, YMWIC Supporters:
At YMWIC, we provide life-enriching experiences for our Scholars. We know through hands-on, on-location, and mentor-led life experiences, our Scholars are seeing and learning things they may not be exposed to in the school classroom.
In March, 40 Scholars, traveled by bus to visit five colleges in Atlanta and Virginia. Their experiences on the trip could never be replicated by looking on a website or in a brochure. They were actually able to imagine themselves as college students as they walked the campuses, interacted with students and staff, observed college classes, and experienced what it is like to live on a college campus.
Throughout this Program Year, Scholars have also had exposure to a variety of exciting learning activities including a field trip to a PECO facility, enriching Community Service events for each Chapter, attended a Philadelphia Union soccer game, the NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers) Convention in Georgia, and the GETT (Girls Exploring Tomorrow's Technology) Expo. They are have recently returned from the Botball Robotics Competition in Southern Maryland, and Job Shadowing with our Corporate Partners, which is yet to come.
These one-of-a-kind opportunities require vision, planning, and support. Wouldn't you like to help YMWIC to continue our stellar programming by investing your time and talent and/or making a financial contribution as a partner or volunteer? I am extending a personal invitation; you may contact me directly. We would love to have you join us as we continue to transform the lives of our Scholars.
Richard Roberts, III
(610) 340-2844
rrobertsiii@ymwicfoundation.org
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YMWIC MISSION:
To empower and prepare economically disadvantaged and historically underrepresented youth to excel and become leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) careers through a structured and rigorous curriculum, academic tutoring, mentoring and financial assistance programs, accomplished by leveraging alliances with K-12 school districts, universities, corporations, and our committed partners.
YMWIC CORE VALUES:
We Believe we can significantly impact the future of our youth through education and extraordinary leadership.
We Value Commitment, Honor and Accountability and through these principles we are dedicated to the tradition of excellence in serving our youth, our partners and our community.
We Promote Engagement and Collaboration by treating all people with respect and sincerity to create an environment of openness where shared success can be achieved.
We Demonstrate Quality by working efficiently and effectively to continuously improve our programs for the benefit of our Scholars.
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We are Grateful for Your Generous Support | | |
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Thank you to the Philadelphia Union Soccer Team who partnered with Chick-fil-A, Downingtown for their generous donations to YMWIC as part of their GiveBack Program. We are honored to have been selected during March 2024 as their first recipient in this program. The donation included tickets for YMWIC Scholars and their families to a Philadelphia Union soccer game. It was an exhilarating experience for all who attended. | |
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The College Tour is a very popular event our Scholars eagerly anticipate each year. The 2024 College Tour to Georgia and Virginia took place during Spring Break from March 25 through March 29. Our Scholars understand the importance of this annual experience and the effect it can have on their futures. It is with this business mindset that 45 motivated high school Scholars, many to be first-generation college students, boarded a bus and headed south. Accompanied by Mr. Roberts and Parent Chaperones, the Scholars who were filled with excitement, anticipation, and lots of questions travelled to:
Savannah State University, the oldest public HBCU (Historically Black College & University) in Georgia and located in Savannah; Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), a public research university and institute of technology in Atlanta; Virginia State University (VSU) in St. Petersburg, an HBCU founded in 1882 and the first Historically Black College or University (HBCU) ever selected to host a General Election U.S. Presidential Debate; Hampton University (aka Our Home by the Sea), an HBCU and research university founded in 1868 and located in Hampton, Virginia. Read more.
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YMWIC MathCounts Team Takes 1st Place! | |
The MATHCOUNTS SIG (Special Interest Group) is open to Scholars (we call them the Mathletes) who are interested in participating in all things math including math games. In the SIG, which meets on Saturdays, they have learned about and had fun with various math strategies and problem-solving activities. On March 20, the YMWIC MathCounts Team, selected from the SIG and consisting of middle school Scholars Maxam Ganges, Michelline Kho, Murad Morris, and Faith Taylor, boarded a plane and flew to Atlanta, Georgia to attend the 2024 NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers) 50th Annual Convention to compete in the National MathCounts Competition. They were accompanied by parent chaperones, Mrs. Linda Taylor and Mr. Edward Ganges; Mr. Roberts, and STEM Educator and MathCounts SIG Coach, Mrs. Wanda Allaire. Read more.
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YMWIC Enjoys a Fun Day at a Philadelphia Union Game | |
A group of YMWIC Scholars and their families took part in an incredibly exciting experience, attending a Philadelphia Union Soccer Team game. The tickets were compliments of the Philadelphia Union, the city's professional Major League Soccer Team.
Thanks to the sponsorship of YMWIC Partner, Chick-fil-A Downingtown, we set up a table promoting YMWIC and its Mission which allowed us to increase awareness about our Program. Staffers Larcena Johnson and Ruth Montes had the opportunity to distribute plenty of materials highlighting our Foundation's purpose and inviting students to join.
The atmosphere at the game was electric, creating the perfect backdrop for our outreach efforts. Watching the game together and fully immersed in the excitement of the match and the overall atmosphere of the event, our Scholars had a fantastic time! Our sincere thanks to the Philadelphia Union and Chick-fil-A Downingtown!
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Chester Upland Chapter: Tanejah Cooper is a 9th grade student who joined YMWIC this Program Year. One reason she joined YMWIC is because she wants to improve her life. She is excited about the activities and competitive events she participates in within her Chapter and is eager to learn new things and show her talents. She is committed to being an active and dedicated member.
Tanejah enjoys studying math and world languages and would like to attend Widener University. She would like to be an Engineer since she has always wanted to learn how to create and build things or a Therapist because she is a good listener and a great conversationalist. Tanejah's hobbies include dancing, singing, and playing games.
Keep up the great work, Tanejah. We are thrilled you decided to join YMWIC.
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Coatesville Chapter: Ayden Bolden-Scott, an 8th-grade student at Coatesville Intermediate High School, consistently earned a place on the Honor Roll for three quarters last year. Since joining YMWIC in 6th grade, Ayden states, "The Program is instrumental in my growth and development as a student, which directly contributes to my success in school." Participating in YMWIC has bolstered her confidence, particularly in public speaking—a skill she finds increasingly essential.
Ayden has enthusiastically engaged in YMWIC's Summer Programs and various enrichment activities, finding them both rewarding and enjoyable. With aspirations to attend an Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and major in world history, Ayden envisions herself as a future educator. Outside of academics, Ayden dedicates her free time to performing cheers for audiences as second-year as a member of the Coatesville Red Raiders Cheer Team.
We're rooting for you, Ayden! Keep up the excellent work.
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Norristown Chapter: Ernestina Ortiz Velazquez is in the 4th grade at Paul V. Fly Elementary School. This is Ernestina's first year as a YMWIC Scholar, and she hopes that being a member will help her to become more comfortable speaking in public. She loves to learn and looks forward to the engaging, hands-on workshops and Community Service events. Ernestina would like to become a nurse and enjoys doing math in her free time.
Welcome to YMWIC, Ernestina. Keep up the good work; your goals are within your reach.
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Phoenixville Chapter: Eli Smith-Kiser is a 3rd-grade student at Manavon Elementary School, embarking on his first program year with YMWIC. Intrigued by STEM subjects, Eli was drawn to YMWIC to explore his interests further. Throughout his membership, he has found particular enjoyment in the Community Service events, engaging in his science projects, and participating in the Science Expo.
Diligent in his academic pursuits, Eli aspires to become a police officer in the future. During his leisure time, he indulges in activities such as playing games on his phone and Xbox, disassembling objects to understand their inner workings, and enjoying outdoor adventures on his bike and hoverboard.
Keep nurturing your curiosity and dedication, Eli, and welcome to YMWIC!
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Upper Darby Chapter: Vafunsia Sirleaf, a 9th grade student, attends Upper Darby High School. He joined YMWIC this Program Year and is very focused on his future and academic goals. He says, "I want to take advantage of the skills I will learn in the Program to the fullest so I can then use them in the future." He adds, "I believe YMWIC will prepare and guide me and other Scholars on our educational paths." He commits to arriving on time to Program events and participating in as many activities as he can, while showing respect to his YMWIC peers and mentors.
Vafunsia plans to study to become a Mechanical Engineer. In addition to focusing on his academics, he will participate in athletics.
We are impressed by your drive and dedication, Vafunsia.
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West Chester Chapter: Elijah Ryans is a 4th grade student at Hillsdale Elementary School where he has achieved Honor Roll status. He was also selected as a 4th Grade Leader in his first trimester.
According to Elijah, “The workshops have been so much fun, especially the one where my fellow cohort members and I built a robot.” He also enjoyed the Science Expo and science project process, saying, "Participating in the Science Expo was a great opportunity for me to learn to meet deadlines and accomplish my goal. It also was a chance to practice public speaking." He adds, "YMWIC is a great organization with many opportunities. It is a great way to meet other Scholars and learn about science." Read more.
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William Penn Chapter: Ibrahim Kamara attends the Penn Wood Ninth Grade Academy in the William Penn School District where he is in the 9th grade. An Honor Roll student, Ibrahim is new to YMWIC this Program Year. He said that he joined YMWIC planning to take advantage of, and benefit from, all that the Foundation has to offer by attending as many workshops and events as possible.
An avid reader, Ibrahim would like to study science. He is considering West Chester University and Delaware County Community College, and would like to become a chef. Ibrahim likes to watch TV and read a good book in his free time.
Keep up your hard work Ibrahim, your future looks bright and full of possibilities.
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Workshops #12
During these workshops, Scholars were instructed on the art of providing and receiving constructive feedback. Site Coordinators utilized surveys prepared for this Program Year, along with insights gathered from the recently attended Science Expo, to illustrate this process. Scholars acquired valuable skills in articulating their concerns constructively and learned the importance of not just identifying problems but also offering solutions. Moreover, we elucidated how the organization will leverage feedback from these surveys to refine programming for the upcoming years.
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Workshops #13
Scholars experienced a transformative session during Workshop #13, led by representatives from the Travis Manion Foundation. This session underscored the significance of Character Education and the Development of Strong Personal Values. Engaging in open discussions, attendees exchanged ideas and perspectives, while video presentations and PowerPoint slides enriched the learning experience. The presenters' expertise and fervor for Character Development deeply resonated with our audience, fostering a profound understanding of the importance of identifying and nurturing character traits.
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Bonus Workshop #1
Vinod Raghavan, YMWIC Board Member and Managing Director at Deloitte, extended an invitation to Bridgette Link, Senior Vice President - Financial Solutions & Technology at Johnson & Johnson, to address our Scholars during a joint, all-Chapters workshop. Ms. Link provided a virtual roadmap detailing her journey to her current position at Johnson & Johnson, tracing back to her studies in accounting and finance during high school. She carried with her the invaluable advice from her parents to "Be the best in whatever you choose to do," as she pursued her education at Hampton University, an HBCU, and Harvard University. Read more.
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Phoenixville Chapter: The Phoenixville Chapter held its third Community Service event with our partners, Trellis for Tomorrow in Phoenixville. Scholars came together during spring break and helped the cultivators of the garden weed to prep the raised beds for the upcoming season of planting. Despite the poor weather, everyone was in good spirits and excited to be a part of this amazing project.
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Healthcare Inequality in America
by Anailah Lamb Towles -- Coatesville Chapter
Healthcare inequality in America is a pressing issue that has plagued our nation for far too long. The stark disparities in access to quality healthcare based on factors such as socioeconomic status, race, and geographical location have resulted in millions of Americans being unable to receive the medical care they desperately need. This has led to increased mortality rates, higher rates of chronic illnesses, and overall diminished quality of life for many individuals who are unable to afford or access proper healthcare services.
The root causes of healthcare inequality in America are complex and multifaceted. One of the primary factors contributing to this issue is the high cost of healthcare in the United States. With exorbitant medical bills and expensive insurance premiums, many low-income individuals and families simply cannot afford to seek medical treatment when they fall ill. Read more.
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Changes are Being Made to Improve Our Schools
by Christina Kumi – Upper Darby Chapter
As someone who has gone to elementary and high school in Pennsylvania, I have seen firsthand how schools being underfunded directly affects schools’ environment and opportunities provided for students. Especially in this part of Pennsylvania, many schools in lower-income neighborhoods are funded significantly less than other neighborhoods even if they are in the same school district. This has been an ongoing, vexing topic for a long time; and finally, steps are being taken to change it.
“On February 7, 2023, in a historic victory for Pennsylvania’s public school students, Commonwealth Court ruled that Pennsylvania’s School Funding System is unconstitutional and must be reformed” (The Public Interest Law Center, February 2023). Read more.
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YMWIC STEAM & Language Arts Camps
Summer is almost here, register your camper now! The YMWIC 2024 Summer Camps are exciting, educational, and fun-filled six-week experiences for rising 1st through 8th grade students as of September, who will have great experiences exploring new concepts in math, chemistry, biology, computer science, robotics, language arts, reading, art, and much more!! Camps will take place from June 17th – July 25, 2024, at locations within YMWIC Partner School Districts. There will be weekly field trips; previous trips have included The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Zoo, Camden’s Adventure Aquarium, and The Academy of Natural Sciences — all included with registration!
The YMWIC STEAM & Language Arts Camp locations are in Coatesville, Norristown, Upper Darby, and West Chester, PA. Register your Camper by clicking on your desired location below.
Coatesville YMWIC 2024 STEAM & Language Arts Camp
Norristown YMWIC 2024 STEAM & Language Arts Camp
Upper Darby YMWIC 2024 STEAM & Language Arts Camp
West Chester YMWIC 2024 STEAM & Language Arts Camp
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YMWIC Upward Bound Summer Programs
Young Men and Women In Charge Foundation, Inc., is hosting our 2024 Annual YMWIC Upward Bound Summer Programs for the Upper Darby and Coatesville School Districts. This exceptional Program is a great opportunity for Upper Darby and Coatesville School District students who will be first-generation college students in their families. The six-week experience will enrich, expose, and prepare Scholars for college and provide insight into future careers and employment opportunities. They will experience projects in the arts, entrepreneurship, mentoring, leadership, and the important networking skill of golf. Participants will also enjoy College and Career Readiness activities which include weekly college tours, math, English and Language Arts enrichment, and weekly athletic activities. The Program takes place Monday through Thursday from June 17 – July 25, 2024.
Scholars will participate in college campus tours of six Philadelphia-area colleges and visit Fortune 100 corporations. The Program will end with our very popular and well-attended complimentary Celebratory Buffet Dinner recognizing the end of another successful Upward Bound Summer Program with Scholars and parents at the Penn Oaks Golf Club. Every Upward Bound member who is an Upper Darby School District student will receive a CASH STIPEND. Click here to register for this enriching and life-enhancing opportunity.
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YMWIC 14th Annual Scholarship & Awards Banquet
It's less than a month away! YMWIC will host our 14th Annual Scholarship & Awards Banquet. This exciting event will be held at the Sheraton Valley Forge Hotel in King of Prussia, PA, on Thursday, May 23, 2024. During the Banquet, we showcase our Scholars for their achievements and reward our graduating senior Scholars with the college scholarships they have earned to attend the colleges of their choice. There will be a delicious dinner and an inspiring message from our keynote speaker.
We will also honor industry executives who are champions in supporting YMWIC and our communities with the following Awards:
West Impact Award: ifm efector, inc. accepted by Ms. Shannon Michalkiewicz
Educational Leadership Award for Secondary Education: Dr. Christina L. Taylor
Educational Leadership Award for Post-Secondary Education: Dr. Brandon J. Mitchell
Community Leadership Award: Mrs. Frances M. Sheehan
Get your tickets today to join us as we celebrate our Scholars and Community Leaders and enjoy an evening of fellowship and fun! To register to attend this amazing event or to make a donation, use this link.
To Sponsor this popular event, make a donation, or purchase an ad in our Souvenir Program Booklet, please click here.
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YMWIC 11th Annual Scholarship & STEM Golf Classic
Join us on Monday, September 9, 2024, at the fabulous Penn Oaks Golf Club in a Scramble Golf Tournament and Fundraiser to support our Scholarship Program for the Young Men and Women In Charge (YMWIC) Foundation, Inc. You will meet our Scholars, network, and have fun as you help us raise scholarship funds.
Golfers will receive gifts and enjoy an open buffet lunch and an open buffet dinner. There will be prizes for our guests and winners. For non-golfers, please join us for the evening banquet and networking dinner event, which will include a delicious buffet dinner and much more. Click here to register for this eagerly-anticipated event.
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Here are key dates for upcoming events planned for the YMWIC 2023-2024 Program Year:
April to May: Scholar Job Shadowing with YMWIC Foundation's Corporate Partners
May 23: YMWIC 14th Annual Scholarship & Awards Banquet at the Sheraton Valley Forge Hotel
June 17 - July 26: Elementary School STEAM & Language Arts Camp, Middle School Science Retreat, and High School Upward Bound Summer Programs
May - August: Summer Internships for YMWIC High School Scholars and Alumni
September 9: YMWIC 11th Annual Scholarship & STEM Golf Classic at Penn Oaks Golf Club
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YMWIC is a non-profit 501(c3) Pennsylvania Corporation. Our Mission is to empower and prepare economically disadvantaged and historically underrepresented youth to excel and become leaders in STEM careers. We are looking for talented, motivated, and qualified individuals with initiative who are committed to our Mission to competently fill the following roles in the Foundation:
Six-week Summer Elementary School Program for 1st - 6th grade students -- Teacher
Six-week Middle School Program for 7th and 8th grade students -- Teacher
Six-week High School Summer Program for 9th - 12th grade students -- Teacher
Click Here for more information about these positions. If you are interested in applying for a position listed above, please let us know your preference and submit your resume to employment@ymwicfoundation.org. All candidates must have the required clearances: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Clearance, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Criminal History Clearance which is required for all employees and some volunteers.
Volunteers Needed
If you or your organization would like to be a valued volunteer for YMWIC, please use this link. We welcome and appreciate your talents, time, and willingness to work with us!
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Follow YMWIC on Facebook and Instagram | |
Keep up with our Scholars and Program! You can stay on top of what YMWIC Scholars are doing by following us on both of our social media platforms, Instagram and Meta (formerly Facebook). This is a great way to receive constant updates on what’s happening at YMWIC. All you must do is go on your Instagram and/or Meta (Facebook) app and type YMWICscholars. Once you see our logo pop up, click Follow. Drop a Comment to say hello! Welcome to our social media family! Looking forward to seeing you join in on the fun.
To connect with us online on Meta/Facebook, select this Link! To stay up to date with what’s happening at YMWIC via Instagram, you can select this Link.
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Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC): YMWIC Foundation, Inc., is eligible to receive funds from the EITC Program which is administered by Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development. We thank those businesses that donate their EITC funding to YMWIC Foundation and encourage others to consider directing funding to our impactful community nonprofit that provides college and career preparation for K-12 students; empowers their families; counseling, financial support and internships for YMWIC college alumni; and enriches our communities through Community Service activities, increasing the number of college graduates, and developing a talented and skilled workforce. Please contact Rick Roberts at (610) 340-2844 if you would like to consider our YMWIC Foundation, Inc., as the recipient of your company's EITC funds. |
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Thank You for Your Generous Support | | | | |
