There are four major beneficiaries of our fundraiser that are focused on Windsor area youth, and that have funding contingent on a successful fundraiser. This list does not include a few minor grants that are not focused on youth.
1. STEM Program at Pacific Coast Air Museum
In partnership with Windsor High School volunteers from PACM offers a hands-on STEM education program focused on aviation careers. Each school year, 8–12 students, typically juniors and seniors participate in a weekly after-school program at which they gain real world experience in aircraft maintenance, restoration, and aviation technology. Students work individually or in small groups on projects such as aircraft restoration, engine overhauls, or component fabrication. Many students have never used hand tools or worked with machinery before, and volunteer instructors provide guidance in welding, tool use, and mechanical skills. Guest speakers from the aviation industry, including pilots, mechanics, and engineers also share insights into their professions, inspiring students to pursue further education or careers in aviation. Completed student projects are proudly displayed at the museum, showcasing their achievements and inspiring museum visitors. Some students continue volunteering with PCAM after graduation while attending Santa Rosa Junior College. Funds for this project go towards tools and equipment for this unique program and opportunity.
2. Mark West Community Park Gazebo
The 2017 Tubbs fire is still having an effect on our community but this project is a big step to reclaiming what was destroyed. The Mark West/Larkfield residents are working together to rebuild a community park that will include a state of the art playground and a gazebo named the Chief Williams Station, after our friend and past Windsor Rotary Club president Doug Williams. This will be a welcome gathering and play center for the community. Most of the construction materials and labor for this project are donated by the community.
3. Circuit Riders' Windsor Youth Hub
Under the new CEO, Rob Izzo, Circuit Riders is planning to obtain a gently used classroom portable to create a classroom on its campus here in Windsor on Old Redwood Highway. The portable building will be home to training programs for court referred, at-risk youth and young adults ages 14–24 with skill-building, job training, and behavioral health programs. Circuit Riders' objectives are rooted in early intervention, culturally relevant programming, and wraparound supports designed to address the root causes of youth justice involvement and long-term disconnection from work or school. Additionally, once the building is complete, it will also serve as a shared resource space for Windsor nonprofits and the wider community.
4. Windsor Unified School District Programs
4.1. Windsor Middle School AVID program
AVID stands for Achievement Via Individual Determination. It is a program that focuses on eager students whose parents have not had a college education. In class the students are taught how to be organized, take notes, the importance of homework and tips for studying. Students are introduced to the college aptitude test, application process, scholarship opportunities and even go on field trips to local colleges. This program is about giving kids a realistic view of what is possible and achievable through committed work even if they are the first in their families to go to college.
4.2. Windsor Middle School Farm to Table elective
This class allows students to become gardeners and chefs, growing fresh organic produce, taking the seasonal ingredients and coming up with recipes to use the produce. A true farm to fork experience. The funds requested will go toward the cooking portion of the elective: equipment (pasta maker, mixer) kitchen tools (knives, etc.) and pantry staples such as flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, etc.
4.3. Science Camp at Nature Bridge Golden Gate
Brooks Elementary wants to be sure that every 5th grader at Brooks Elementary gets to attend this 3 day, 2 night adventure in a wilderness classroom where the students learn ecology, oceanography, weather, zoology, teamwork and cooperation. For most students, it is their first opportunity to be away from home. Lessons learned at camp help these students form a lifetime of appreciation and wonder regarding our local natural resources. The Brooks PTA and the students themselves fundraise for this trip, and our contribution will also be used for scholarships to help defer the hefty cost of this keystone trip.
4.4. Windsor Middle School Theatre
Students are not only acting but also assistant directing, stage managing, and designing sets, costumes, and lighting. They are analyzing scripts, developing themes and character motivations, and learning all aspects of producing live theatre. For some students, classes like this open up new opportunities for learning and give real meaning and a desire to be a part of school activities. Drama programs foster confidence, public speaking, and communication skills and build students' responsibility, organization, and follow-through. Funds will be used for costumes, scripts, licenses, props and marketing.
4.5. Alternative/Augmentative Communication (AAC)
Can you imagine not being able to use your voice to communicate? For some students with severe Autism and other developmental delays, this is an everyday reality. Without a reliable way to communicate, students can experience great frustration, withdrawal, behavior outbursts and difficulty participating in educational activities and social interactions. The money from this grant will fund 10 Alternative/Augmentative Communication (AAC) devices. Five of these devices will be provided to each of the Extensive Support Needs classrooms for teachers at Mattie Washburn and Brooks Elementary Schools to use with any student who needs communication support. The other five devices will be provided to individual students who are identified to be in need of an alternative mode of communication. Students who receive communication devices can potentially use the same device for the duration of their time in the Windsor School District, as vocabulary can be adjusted as they move up in grades.