SteamRocket's CV Giving Day 2024 Success: 1,800 Young Lives Inspired

CVGiving Day 2024 marked a pivotal moment for SteamRocket and the youth it serves. Thanks to the generous support of sponsors and community members, the organization secured over $6,000 in funding, allowing them to provide innovative STEAM education to nearly 1,800 young minds across the valley – a record-breaking achievement that highlights the power of community giving.

The support's impact was felt throughout the Coachella Valley, from Desert Hot Springs to Mecca. SteamRocket expanded its summer programs to engage children in Desert Hot Springs, Palm Desert, Indio Library, Coachella Library, and Mecca Library by partnering with local libraries and community centers. This expansion was made possible by First Bank, Desert Community Foundation, KESQ, RAP Foundation, NPO Centric, Amazon, The Auen Foundation, and the supportive community.

"What we accomplished last year went beyond mere numbers – it focused on transforming lives through play and learning," says Elle Decker, co-founder of SteamRocket. "In a region where many families face economic hardships, every dollar donated opens new opportunities for our children to explore, create, and dream bigger."

The need for such programs in the Coachella Valley is significant. According to recent demographic data, many areas in the valley face educational and economic challenges, with some communities reporting poverty rates above the national average and limited access to STEAM education resources. These statistics highlight the crucial role of organizations like SteamRocket in providing accessible educational opportunities.

Crystal Arellano, Community Engagement Director, highlights the significant impact of community support: "A donation of just $12 provides a full year of access to Minecraft Education Edition for one child. This isn't just about playing video games – it's about opening doors to digital literacy, creative problem-solving, and future career opportunities for our valley's youth."

The organization's partnership with The LEGO Foundation and ChangeX has further amplified its impact by embracing the power of play as a crucial tool for learning. Through these collaborations, SteamRocket shows how playful learning can improve educational outcomes and engage children in STEAM subjects in ways that traditional methods may not accomplish.

As CV Giving Day 2025 approaches on March 4, SteamRocket aims to build on last year's success. Early giving starts on February 4, 2025, giving the community a head start in supporting this educational transformation. Those who wish to contribute can make donations here. Every contribution, regardless of size, helps create opportunities for valley youth to explore, learn, and grow through STEAM education.

"The beauty of our program lies in its accessibility," Decker adds. "Whether coding with Minecraft, building with LEGO, or exploring our mobile makerspace, we demonstrate that STEAM education can be fun and attainable. However, we can't continue this work without community support."

The upcoming Giving Day signifies more than just a fundraising event; it is a chance for the community to invest in the future of Coachella Valley's youth. With ongoing support, SteamRocket aims to broaden its reach, develop new programs, and create even more opportunities for local children to engage with STEAM education through the power of play.

For anyone eager to make a difference in their community, supporting SteamRocket through CV Giving Day provides a direct opportunity to impact local youth education. Every contribution helps cultivate a stronger, more educated, innovative Coachella Valley for generations.