Kauai Robotics Alliance was founded as a 501(c)(3) organization in 2013 by a group of robotics teachers, parents, and team mentors, in order to support robotics programs on Kauai, both financially and logistically. The initial focus was on obtaining funds from sources that weren't available to individual schools or programs, and coordinating fundraising activities for the Kaua'ibots all-island high school robotics team. We were able to locate several sources of grant funding, including various programs through the Hawaii Community Foundation, and the United Way. We also entered into a partnership with Lappert's of Hawaii to conduct a coffee sales program, which continues to provide necessary funds for student travel and other team activities, and engaged with other funding platforms such as the Amazon Smile program and Facebook fundraisers.
Over the years, however, we have been able to do much more, conducting summer camps, bringing free CAD classes to interested students (and adults), sponsoring teacher training programs, and growing a vibrant FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) program for middle- and high-school students.In 2020, we helped start three new FTC teams, bringing the total number of teams on Kauai to seven, and extending opportunities to students in Kekaha and Waimea. Five of the teams attended the State Championship Tournament on Oahu. We provide essential support for these teams, assisting with their fundraising, purchasing, and travel logistics, as well as providing help from experienced trainers and mentors, and financial assistance when needed (via loans or grants).
We continue to support the Kaua'ibots team, which is going strong in its 13th year. Over the years, the team has been comprised of students from every high school on the Island, and this year, thanks to the opportunities provided by the FTC program, has gained several outstanding students from Waimea Canyon Middle School and St. Catherine's School. The soon-to-graduate seniors are happy to be passing on their knowledge and skills to this enthusiastic, motivated 'next generation'!
Kauai Robotics Alliance: