Expand Energy donated $15,000 to the nonprofit Libera, Inc. to bring the organization’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) Exploration Program to three Ohio County elementary schools. The interactive program visited Madison, Woodsdale and Warwood Elementary Schools where a total of 450 students learned about engineering while exploring the Cass Scenic Railroad. Students built ramps and tracks like those used by the Cass steam engines using cardboard, tape and tin foil.
“We believe in empowering the next generation of innovators by supporting hands on learning,” said Stephanie Paluda, Community Relations Manager at Expand Energy. “We are proud to partner with organizations like Libera that invest in a future where creativity and critical thinking thrive.”
Additionally, students were able to take home Lila Bear STEAM activity boxes to explore with their families and learn more about engineering. The boxes included a Lego kit to build a train and another wooden train-building activity to try with their families.
“We are so grateful to work with partners like Expand Energy who not only realize the importance of bringing programs like ours to youth in West Virginia but who take an active role in educating and inspiring students in the communities they work in,” Kelsey Riggi, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Libera, told WTRF News.
Libera, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building brighter futures for youth and young women in West Virginia. Founded in 2015, Libera’s programs meet girls where they are and provide access to mentorship, education, and employment opportunities. Since 2022, Libera has provided over 5,000 STEAM activity boxes to students in schools across the state, teaching them about STEAM in a hands-on way.
Students learned about engineering while exploring Cass Scenic Railroad through hands-on activities.