Kate Cotner, FPL director of community engagement; Joanne Sweazey, executive director of The Hope Center for Autism; Chris Vaccaro, director of business development; Lisa Rhodes, executive director, Education Foundation of Martin County. Photo by Doreen Poreba
The Hope Center for Autism, which provides individualized education, support, and advocacy for children and young adults with autism, received a $50,000 Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) Classroom Makeover Grant to create an innovative STEM Makerspace designed specifically to support the unique learning needs of students with autism.
The Education Foundation of Martin County will serve as the fiduciary agent for the grant, partnering with The Hope Center to support the implementation of this project.
With this investment, The Hope Center will launch Project Chameleon, an initiative inspired by the school’s mascot, “Chamy the Chameleon.” The project will introduce accessible 3D printing, sensory-friendly robotics, and immersive virtual reality technology to create a STEM Makerspace tailored to students with autism.
Representatives from the Education Foundation of Martin County, FPL, The Hope Center for Autism and the Martin County School District celebrate after receiving support for innovative STEM learning opportunities in schools and educational programs. Photo by Doreen Poreba
Through Project Chameleon, students will gain:
Hands-on experience with emerging technologiesOpportunities to develop problem-solving and critical thinking skillsExposure to STEM-related career pathwaysIncreased independence through adaptive communication and learning tools
The project will begin implementation in March as The Hope Center prepares to transition into its new facility at 500 Indian Street in Stuart.
For more information about FPL’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grant, visit FPL.com/ClassroomGrant.