Youth Activities Program

 
 Youth Activities Program
 
          In 2007 the RCA Youth Activities Program was formed, under the direction of Carole Perry WB2MGP as head of the Education committee dealing with students in grades 12 and below. The mission of this program is to give support and encouragement to schools that already have a radio/technology program or to encourage the start up of such a program in a high school, middle school, or elementary school.
          There are 22 schools and 2 museums that are presently part of our support network.  After the school, museum, or youth group, such as Boy/Girl Scouts has been properly vetted, the aid can take the form of a cash donation to the school, delivery of radio or electronics equipment and materials, an hf or vhf rig for the ham station, or books and materials for the teacher and students. In addition, the recipient of our help also gains access to the terrific network of RCA members who graciously share their considerable expertise to support the school program.
          The RCA Young Achiever’s Award has also been created to be given to a youngster who has demonstrated technical expertise and creativity in wireless communications. Winners of this award are presented with an impressive certificate along with a stipend to encourage their continued studies in technology. To date, 33 such awards have been presented. Young adults age 8 through 18 who give presentations at the Dayton HamVention Youth Forum each year are given the award along with a stipend check in a formal ceremony, designed to encourage other children in the audience. 
          All the equipment and books are donated by RCA members and other supporters and forwarded to an appropriate school or institution. The funding for our educational program is provided principally by contributions from RCA members. Donations are always appreciated and can be made to either the R.G. Somers Youth Education Fund; an endowment that is our main resource, or directly to the RCA Youth Activities Program. Checks should be made payable to The Radio Club of America with a notation as to which fund you are directing your contribution. Donations of Amateur Radio Equipment are always needed. Contact Carole Perry at 718-668-9347 for details.
         Children are our most important natural resource. Please help us make their educational experience be an excellent one.
Click here to view the WRO Fractal article, October 2012  
Click here to view the QST March 2013 article.