Bank supports Orion STEM camp

PHOENIXVILLE >> Orion Communities, a local non-profit, is preparing to launch its third STEM summer camp for qualifying families in the Phoenixville area, thanks in part to a donation from

Ambler Savings Bank.

STARS (Sharing Technology Advance Reading Skills) began three years ago to inspire curiosity about computers and reading for children from lowincome households, helping to close the academic gap between children from under-resourced households and their wealthier peers.

Orion’s STARS program volunteers noticed how responsive the students were to various STEM concepts, and decided to launch a STEM summer camp. With support of donations like the one from Ambler Savings Bank, and community volunteers from Penn State Extension, 4-H Club and Ursinus College, the camp will run again this summer. Focused activities include coding, robotics, biology, electronics, math puzzles and a variety

of fun and challenging problem-solving opportunities.

“We are looking forward to resuming in person programs this summer,” said Melinda Izzo, operations manager at Orion, “Children learn best as they engage in hands-on activities, develop critical thinking skills and imagine possibilities”.

“We are proud to support Orion Communities in providing a helping

hand to community members in need, especially filling in the gaps in education for children,” said Erin Cohen, vice president and retail officer of Ambler Savings Bank.

Orion Communities has remained open and serving the community through the pandemic. To learn more about their services and ways to volunteer, visit their website at www.OrionCommunities.org.