Battelle, an independent, nonprofit leader in scientific research and development with a strong dedication to science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, recently made a $30,000 dedication to the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City to support its local STEM initiatives.
This is the third consecutive year that Battelle, based in Ohio, has pledged support to ACBGC.
ACBGC is set to leverage this new grant for further enrichment of the program that has already seen accomplished milestones: Providing college-level education in aviation, facilitating hands-on drone activities and fostering the creation of a documentary on Atlantic City.
The multifaceted aviation program began in fall 2022, when promising STEM high school students got to take an introductory aviation course offered through Atlantic Cape Community College. Those students then worked with ACBGC staffers to mentor 160 inner-city youths during the second half of the school year, exposing even more Atlantic City children and teens to the use of drones and opportunities presented by the aviation industry.
Don LaMonaca, director of Battelle’s Critical Infrastructure Business Line, said the organization is thrilled to help.
“Battelle is more than an incubator of science and technology; we are nurturers of the next generation of innovators,” he said. “Our commitment is beyond infrastructure — it is deeply rooted in empowering young minds.”
Lauren Moore, president of the Atlantic County Economic Alliance, was thrilled by the continued support.
“This substantial investment speaks volumes about Battelle’s dedication to community outreach and educational advancement,” he said. “Investments like this change lives and enhance futures for the youth of Atlantic City.”
Charles Wallace II, the CEO of the ACBGC, thanked both organizations for their support.
“The ACEA’s leadership and commitment is an example for all to follow,” he said. “The ACEA team was instrumental in successfully applying for this grant to support career pathways for our talented youth in the innovation and aerospace industries. The ACBGC thanks the ACEA and Battelle for their support.”
