Step Into STEM: $2.2K Raised for 312 Backpacks for Kids

Student-led STEM camps inspired young learners, raised $2,200, and funded the donation of 312 backpacks through Cradles to Crayons.

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL, UNITED STATES, September 8, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — More than 300 children will begin the school year with a new backpack thanks to a summer initiative led by the nonprofit Step Into STEM. Through a series of hands-on STEM camps, the organization raised $2,200, which funded the purchase of 312 backpacks that were donated to Cradles to Crayons. On the day of the donation, the Step Into STEM team and volunteers also assisted at the Cradles to Crayons community event, helping prepare and distribute essential items to local children and families.

Over three weeks this summer, Step Into STEM hosted interactive science camps held twice a week with two sessions each day. Camp participants explored chemistry, physics, engineering, and other STEM concepts through engaging experiments designed to spark curiosity and build confidence in science. Every registration helped support the organization’s community service mission.

The initiative was organized by Bianca Berry, CEO and Founder of Step Into STEM, along with Lyons Township High School juniors Tacy Hendricks, Margaret Zieba, and Matej Naunov, and volunteer Kiara Berry, a middle school student who assisted with the camps and community service activities.

“Step Into STEM was founded on the belief that science education should inspire curiosity while creating opportunities to give back to the community,” said Bianca Berry. “Every student who attended our camps helped make it possible to donate 312 backpacks to children through Cradles to Crayons. Watching young students discover the excitement of STEM while knowing our efforts would help other children start the school year with a new backpack made this project especially meaningful.”

Step Into STEM is a student-led nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to STEM education while serving the community. Through hands-on science camps and outreach programs, the organization encourages younger students to explore STEM while raising funds for charitable initiatives that benefit children and families.

The success of this summer’s initiative demonstrates how STEM education can extend beyond the classroom, combining learning, leadership, and community service to make a meaningful local impact.

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