About

Sharing Blessings to Others' STEM Program

Sharing Blessings to Others’ STEM program is designed to empower underrepresented youth in Haiti by providing access to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. Implementing STEM initiatives in Haiti presents unique challenges, including economic constraints, limited resources, and a scarcity of trained educators. Many schools lack laboratories, technology, and funding, making hands-on STEM education difficult to sustain. Despite these obstacles, SBO has made significant strides in expanding innovative, interactive STEM learning opportunities to children who need them most.

In 2023, SBO partnered with 1000 Holes, an organization known for its fundraising efforts supporting STEM initiatives. This collaboration led to the establishment of a new STEM program in Haiti, marking a pivotal moment in hands-on, experimental learning for Haitian students. Moving away from traditional rote memorization and lecture-based instruction, SBO introduced an interactive curriculum, where students engaged with Rubik’s cubes, puzzles, and mathematics-based problem-solving activities, deepening their practical understanding of STEM concepts.

The program is housed within a dedicated learning space, designed to foster creativity and experimentation. Here, students have access to computers for research, coding lessons, and interactive STEM exercises, a significant advancement for resource availability in Haiti. SBO’s multi-disciplinary approach integrates computer science, chemistry, and art, ensuring a well-rounded introduction to STEM subjects, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking.

Impact & Challenges

Throughout 2023, the program hosted 20 educational sessions, quickly gaining popularity among students. However, in 2024, rising gang violence and funding limitations forced a reduction in program scale. Despite these obstacles, SBO successfully held a Christmas-themed STEM session on December 23, 2024, attended by 60 students. This special event focused on toy assembly, teaching children mechanical and engineering principles while improving their problem-solving skills.

The session was particularly challenging as instructions were provided in English, offering students a unique opportunity to develop language skills alongside practical learning. Teachers and assistants provided guidance, helping children navigate the task while offering an impromptu English lesson that broadened their educational experience.

A heartwarming highlight of the event was the Christmas gift distribution, ensuring that each participating child received a present purchased through the STEM program. With high poverty levels across Haiti, many families struggle to afford gifts during the holiday season. SBO’s initiative provided relief and joy to children and parents alike, reinforcing the program’s commitment to uplifting communities beyond education.

Future Goals & Expansion

Moving forward, SBO aims to strengthen and expand the STEM program, ensuring sustainable, safe learning environments despite Haiti’s ongoing challenges. The Success Center will play a key role in this vision, providing a library, computer lab, and tutoring services, where children can explore STEM subjects through art, puzzles, and problem-solving exercises. SBO also seeks to expand collaborative learning platforms, giving students access to global mentors and educators through virtual engagement.

SBO extends a special thanks to GLAD Academy and GYP Debate, whose partnerships made the STEM Christmas Event possible in 2024. Their work in cross-cultural communication and youth development has been instrumental in shaping STEM opportunities for Haitian students.

While crime rates and financial limitations remain pressing concerns, SBO remains steadfast in its mission to provide safe, innovative, and impactful STEM education for underrepresented communities. Through dedication, partnerships, and technology-driven learning, the STEM program continues to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders in Haiti.

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