Assemblywoman Nancy J. Pinkin with WeMake 4-H members Hersh Ranpura and club president, Rishabh Rout.
The New Jersey STEM Pathways Network and the Research & Development Council of New Jersey celebrated NJ STEM Month in March with a STEM Fair at the State House in Trenton. Several STEM organizations from across the state had the opportunity to meet with legislators and staff. WeMake 4-H of Middlesex County was among the invited groups, showcasing their STEM outreach work. Club president, Rishabh Rout, took home the prestigious STEM Civic Leadership award.
Hersh Ranpura and Rishabh Rout.
For over three years, WeMake 4-H has been conducting free hands-on workshops at various public places such as libraries, community centers, Boys and Girls Clubs, and the 4-H center to promote STEM/Maker Education and innovative culture among kids. So far their team of 15 high school volunteers has conducted over 100 workshops and more than 1000 kids have attended the sessions.
The club primarily teaches robotics, programming, and Maker projects. They also participate in demo workshops during special events like NJ STEM Month, the county fair, and Google coding camps. Over the last two years, they have successfully conducted a statewide programming contest for elementary & middle school students. Currently they are working on developing a curriculum for students with special needs.
Attendees at the New Jersey State House STEM Fair.
Rishabh Rout and Hersh Ranpura represented the club at the fair. They met with many senators and legislators, including Assemblywoman Nancy Pinkin, and discussed the club activities, programs and efforts that promote STEM education in New Jersey.
“The 4-H program is proud of the impact that our 4-H teens make on the community with their commitment to leadership and service,” said Middlesex County 4-H agent for Laura Bovitz. “We congratulate the WeMake 4-H club on their accomplishments and commitment to educating youth in the area of STEM.”
