EnerSys lights up SPARK museum fundraiser with community support and STEM initiatives
EnerSys, in partnership with our Women in Leadership (WiL) business resource group, proudly showcased our dedication to STEM education at the annual Ignite the Night fundraiser for the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention in Bellingham, WA, on May 18, 2024. Our $1,000 sponsorship, coupled with a beach-themed raffle prize from WiL, contributed to raising over $40,000 for the museum’s programs, including the exciting Wonderlab project.
The Wonderlab project is a pioneering interactive science exhibit designed to ignite the imagination and creativity of children and families. Offering hands-on science experiences, it aligns perfectly with the museum's mission to foster learning through exploration and community engagement.
Pictured: Attendees of the SPARK Museum fundraiser event
Pictured: Attendees of the STEM Workshop creating circuits
Susan Hofstetter, Senior Project Coordinator at EnerSys and a dedicated leader in WiL, shared her enthusiasm for community involvement. "Working with the SPARK Museum and supporting their youth programs has been incredibly rewarding,” Susan explained. “Our partnership has allowed us to empower young minds, especially girls, by providing creative and engaging STEM activities. It's inspiring to see their curiosity and confidence grow." Susan leads the community outreach committee with WiL and develops partnerships with local non-profits, which ultimately formed the connection between EnerSys, WiL, and the SPARK Museum.
Pictured: (Left to right) Vic Mace, Accounts Receivable Specialist; Colette Murray, VP Business Transformation and Customer Service; Susan Hofstetter, Senior Project Coordinator Service; and Matthew Keiper, Software Applications Engineer at the SPARK Museum’s STEM event.
The EnerSys WiL STEM initiative has been instrumental in promoting STEM interest among youth, especially with key partners like the SPARK Museum. Notable activities include the Girls in STEM After Hours events at the SPARK Museum, where participants engage in coding, engineering, and circuit design. These events create a supportive environment for young girls to explore new concepts alongside peers, developing a passion for STEM.
WiL hosted more exciting EnerSys-supported events in September at both the SPARK Museum and the Reading Science Center. Volunteers facilitated circuitry projects, which were enjoyed by children and adults, promoting multi-generational enrichment and learning. These events continue to promote STEM education and empower the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Pictured: Attendee of the STEM Workshop with their completed circuit.
EnerSys employees should reach out to Susan Hofstetter at susan.hofstetter@enersys.com if you would like to help with a STEM event in your area. Learn more about the SPARK Museum and the Wonderlab here.