Homewood Science Center’s Girls STEAM Ahead Success Program to Receive Grant
Homewood Science Center’s Girls STEAM Ahead Success Program to Receive Grant
Commissioner Miller announces Cook County CDBG funding will be awarded
The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development will award Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to support Homewood Science Center’s Girls STEAM Ahead Success program, a workforce development program for 9th-grade female students from low-income families in Rich Township High School District 227. Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller (D-6th) stated “This grant funding addresses gender, racial, and economic inequities in STEAM education and careers, and is in alignment with Cook County’s foundational belief in the value of equity.”
Girls STEAM Ahead Success directly combats two major problems outlined in the Cook County Policy Roadmap: the county’s high racial and economic segregation and the suburbanization of poverty. Program Manager Holly Kelsven stated, “The program seeks to address the underrepresentation of women, particularly minority women, in science and tech careers by providing local female students the skills and encouragement to pursue science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM).”
Through Girls STEAM Ahead Success, Homewood Science Center aims to develop a pipeline of talented Southland students from traditionally underrepresented populations who are equipped with skills that can be deployed effectively in next-economy jobs.
“These are the skills needed to succeed in a developing economy,” said Edie Dobrez, Executive Director, Homewood Science Center. “There is a global effort to diversify our workforce. We believe the South Suburbs can take the lead in that” adding, “We wouldn’t be able to make an impact on these girls’ lives and get them started on their journey if the county didn’t feel this program was worth funding. We’re glad Cook County believes in us and believes that these girls deserve this opportunity.”
“I strongly believe diversity is a key element to making Cook County better. Students served by Girls STEAM Ahead Success are untapped resources for the economic growth of metro Chicago particularly in the Southland,” stated Commissioner Miller, who serves as Co-Chair of the Workforce, Housing & Community Development Committee, adding, “I was proud to advocate for the STEM Ahead Success program, and I am pleased that they will receive this needed funding, which will help Cook County develop viable communities and expand economic opportunities for all residents”.
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