White Birch Center will be expanding Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) activities at their summer camp this year thanks to a generous donation of $1,550 from Osram, parent of Sylvania Automotive located in Hillsboro. The Extended Education Program at White Birch offers day camps over school breaks, providing quality care, recreational, and enrichment opportunities for nearly 75 children during summer vacation. This year, the summer camp is now able to offer a STEM initiative to campers.

“With this incredible gift from our friends at Osram, we get to immerse ourselves in 12 different fun and educational hands-on STEM activities throughout the summer”, explains Alison Palmer, Site Director for the Extended Education Program. In addition to the STEM activity kits, guides, and materials the donation affords, Osram employee volunteers are also participating during some of the lessons, sharing their experience and passion for science, engineering, and community service. Ms. Palmer is quick to point out the other significant benefits of STEM learning, including fostering teamwork, developing problem-solving skills, and understanding conflict resolution.

Sasha Grimes, a Planning Analyst with Osram, is president of Osram’s Community Engagement Committee, the team who approved this donation and service project. “Our committee is formed by employee volunteers who are passionate about giving back to their local communities and increasing the culture of volunteerism, and we are so pleased to be an integral part of this STEM Camp project with White Birch,” notes Grimes.

The mission of White Birch Center is to be a community leader in providing exceptional programs and services that support learning and active living for children, adults, and families.

The mission of Osram’s Community Engagement Committee is to provide assistance in the community to better the lives of those who live in the area, and to express the concern of all Osram associates and the company for the welfare of others.  Osram strives to be a valued corporate neighbor, improve the quality of life in the community, and increase the pride and enthusiasm of its Hillsboro associates.

(l-r: Robin Sweet and Sasha Grimes of the Osram Sylvania Community Engagement Committee present a check for $1,550 to Alison Palmer of White Birch Center, in support of the nonprofit’s summer camp STEM project)

On May 5, guests enjoyed some Louisville excitement at the White Birch Center Kentucky Derby Party held at Pats Peak. Derby-goers dressed in style enjoyed classic cocktails, southern inspired food, and dancing on the deck to live music from Nick’s Other Band. Exquisite raffle items, a fun hat contest, and themed games were enjoyed by a crowd of more than 150 attendees. Gathering for a rendition of My Old Kentucky Home, followed by watching the Run for the Roses on the big screen, added to the tradition of this sold-out event. The Derby Party raised over $10,000 in proceeds towards the mission of White Birch Center – to be a community leader in providing exceptional programs and services that support learning and active living for children, adults, and families. Thank you to everyone who helped make this fundraiser such a wonderful success!

Amy McKean and John Prieto ready for the Derby

Top photo: Derby-goers dressed in style, l-r: Brenda Connor, Pat Chandonnet, Bob Chandonnet, Roseann Heitz, Ginny Doherty

Photos credits: Beth Ann Paul

Check out our 2018 Kentucky Derby Party Gallery!