NEWARK – For more than 100 years, Panasonic has been committed to making positive contributions to society. The Panasonic Foundation recently announced that it has contributed $100,000 to the Skyhook Foundation. This contribution supports Camp Skyhook, an immersive, outdoor learning experience in the Angeles National Forest that aims to initiate and encourage children’s interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). The contribution is intended to help cut down Camp Skyhook’s current six-year waiting list and enable greater access to STEM experiences for kids in underserved communities.
Out of today’s 20 fastest growing occupations, 15 require intensive mathematics or science preparation. Introducing students to the exciting concepts behind STEM education at a young age is critical. Research indicates that 92% of boys and 97% of girls will lose interest in STEM topics if they are not engaged by the 6th grade.
“The time to invest in preparing young people for the future of work is right now,” said Alejandra Ceja, Executive Director of Panasonic Foundation, Inc. “We are proud to play a part in providing students with an opportunity to become fully immersed in STEM curriculum, knowing ultimately we are helping prepare them to compete in the global, 21st Century economy.”
As a long-time advocate for children, NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar founded the Skyhook Foundation to help students from socioeconomically, racially and culturally diverse backgrounds imagine a future for themselves in STEM settings.
“Camp Skyhook originated when I was trying to figure out what’s the best thing I could do to help kids academically,” said Abdul-Jabbar. “I think it’s important to team up with a company like Panasonic, because they understand the importance of empowering kids with STEM education, so they can move the world forward.”
For more information on how Panasonic is providing opportunities for students across the world, visit its Corporate Social Responsibility site to view initiatives. To learn more about the success and future of Camp Skyhook, visit https://skyhookfoundation.org/.
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