What We Do
The program is offered to area youth ages 6-18, with three different age groups. FIRST® Robotics incorporates many programs including: FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Explore for 6-10 years olds, FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Challenge for 9-16 year olds and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) for ages 14-18. We served 16 youth on 2 robotics teams this past season and have served 40 youth in previous seasons
. This past year, the teams were decreased due to COVID-19 requirements to keep all youth healthy and safe. Each of the programs has different requirements, the youngest teams, Explore, learning about simple machines, how to build a LEGO model using moving parts, and beginner coding skills. The Challenge teams build and program robots to complete various missions and complete a project to solve a real world problem by developing new technology or using existing technology in a new way. The FTC teams build and program robots, develop a business plan, participate in community outreach, mentor the younger teams, and market their team through social media. The participants are often kids who find themselves on the outskirts of social groups within their educational programs. This group fosters belonging, support from others, collaboration and social emotional support. It diversifies interests, thus expanding knowledge and abilities which increases self-esteem, self worth and belonging. We work with a great bunch of volunteers and great families with talented, hard-working kids.
