[ we make science jokes, periodically ]

Giving Tuesday Spotlight: SteamRocket's Mission for Kids

SteamRocket is excited to announce the launch of its Giving Tuesday campaign, now live on the Givebutter platform, to raise funds for its groundbreaking Learning Lab initiatives. Givebutter, a popular fundraising platform, empowers nonprofits to connect with donors and amplify their impact through user-friendly campaigns. This Giving Tuesday, SteamRocket is asking for your support to expand its programs and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

SteamRocket has reached nearly 900 kids this summer through its innovative STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) workshops and events. From the Coachella Valley’s first Minecraft Coding Club and LEGO Robotics Club to hosting the first annual Valley Kids PlayFest in collaboration with Indio Library and Little Street Music Hall, SteamRocket has catalyzed STEAM education in the community.

“We’ve seen firsthand the incredible potential of children when given the chance to explore STEAM topics,” said Elle Decker, Co-Founder of SteamRocket. “From coding and robotics to hands-on activities in our Learning Lab, our programs spark curiosity and open doors to a future of limitless possibilities.”

The Learning Lab is at the heart of SteamRocket’s mission, bringing free and low-cost STEAM workshops to libraries, schools, and other venues throughout the Coachella Valley. Thanks to funding from CV Giving Day, the Learning Lab offered a summer of workshops in the East Valley libraries, including Indio Library, Coachella Library, and Mecca Library. These programs have been made possible by partnerships with The LEGO Foundation and ChangeX, who share SteamRocket’s passion for creating hands-on learning opportunities for children.

SteamRocket’s Giving Tuesday campaign is hosted on Givebutter, where supporters can donate to help expand Learning Lab workshops and inspire more young learners. Every donation makes a difference, ensuring programs remain accessible to families across the Coachella Valley.

"Every dollar truly makes a difference," said Crystal Arellano, SteamRocket's Development Coordinator. "For just $12, a child can have a full year of Minecraft: Education Edition, and $25 covers materials for 10 kids in one of our Learning Lab workshops. It’s amazing to see the creativity and excitement kids bring to our programs—whether they’re building robots or crafting circuits, they’re constantly surprising us. Your support helps spark that creativity today while inspiring tomorrow's problem-solvers, engineers, and innovators."

Visit SteamRocket’s Givebutter campaign to contribute and help create a brighter future for children in our community. Together, we can empower kids to explore, create, and innovate.