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Submitted by: Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County

According to the U. S. Department of Commerce, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers are growing at twice the rate of other occupations. STEM degree holders have higher income levels, even in non-STEM careers. STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy, and enables the next generation of innovators. Despite these compelling facts, mathematics and science scores on average among U.S. students are lagging behind other developing countries.

Together, Phillips 66 and Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County (BGCWC) are committed to closing the opportunity gap in STEM with innovative and creative programs and resources for local youth. With generous support from Phillips 66, BGCWC is embarking on an ambitious, organization-wide program to provide cutting-edge STEM equipment and curricula that will inspire our youth and hone the skills they need to succeed in our technology-driven world.

Because of Phillips 66’s generosity, each one of BGCWC’s clubhouses will be able to provide everything from new computers to electronic microscopes, robotics programs to 3-D printers – along with hands-on, experiential, and fun STEM curricula. In addition, BGCWC will be able to upgrade outdated infrastructure that inhibited computer lab performance.

BGCWC also will be able to create a new staff position of STEM educator/coordinator: a STEM professional who will develop materials and activities for each Club site, and will work with, and train, the staff at each clubhouse to deliver this program with consistently high standards. This unique partnership brings together the shared values and vision of BGCWC and Phillips 66 to benefit Whatcom County’s kids, especially those who need us most.

After-school and summer learning environments provide unique opportunities to advance STEM knowledge and increase interest in STEM-related careers. The board of directors and staff of BGCWC are proud to be able to offer this new and exciting program to the youth of Whatcom County, and deeply grateful to Phillips 66 for their partnership and support. Together, we can offer our kids an opportunity to broaden their horizons and create for themselves the bright future each of them deserves.

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