At LumenSparQ, we believe in the power of community and the transformative potential of individuals to create positive change. Our mission is to spotlight and support local heroes in education who are making a significant impact in their communities. But how do we do this? Let’s delve into our unique giving structure that goes beyond just financial support.
Our giving structure is designed to provide tailored support to our heroes, who we refer to as Lumenaries, SparQs, and Embers. We understand that each hero has a unique mission and specific needs for their community. Therefore, we aim to provide support that aligns with their individual goals and enhances their ability to make a difference.
Material Resources
One of the primary ways we support our heroes is by providing material resources. These resources vary depending on the specific needs of each situation. For instance, we provided books for our Lumenary, María, for her Lennox Middle School book club. We also supplied a mobile freezer for Kim at Warrior Pantry, enabling her to store and distribute frozen food to those in need. In 2023, our Ember Project students worked with Safe Place for Youth, where we provided bedding and towels to meet the immediate needs of the teens they serve facing housing insecurity.
In another instance, we provided our Lumenary, Naomi, with a mobile cart full of maker tools and supplies for her students at RISE High School. These resources were integrated into their entrepreneurship program, empowering the students to explore their creativity and engage in hands-on projects.
In-Person Volunteering
In addition to material resources, we also provide support through in-person volunteering. Our team is committed to getting involved in the community and working alongside our heroes to create positive change. For example, we helped create three sensory regulation courses on the campus of 156th Street Elementary School, providing a safe and calming space for students that might be experiencing trauma, stress, or anxiety while in the classroom.
Tailored Support
What sets our giving structure apart is the tailored support we provide to each hero. We understand that each hero has unique needs and challenges. Therefore, we take the time to understand their mission, their community, and their specific needs. This allows us to provide support that is not only valuable but also relevant and impactful.
A Partnership, Not Just a Donation
At LumenSparQ, we view our support as a partnership rather than just a donation. We believe in the work our heroes are doing and are committed to standing alongside them in their journey. By providing tailored support, we are able to enhance their efforts and help them make a greater impact in their communities.
We want our future heroes to understand that our support goes beyond just giving money. It’s about providing unique and specific support based on their own mission and needs. It’s about empowering them to make a difference in their community. And most importantly, it’s about standing together in the pursuit of a brighter future through education, innovation, and unwavering support for our local heroes and the people they serve.
At LumenSparQ, we’re not just giving; we’re partnering, supporting, and empowering. And together, we’re making a difference.
I love your concept. Your compassion is more than writing a check, which most of us, including me, tend to do. You take the time to get to know your recipients and target their specific needs. You’re like a companion on their journey, hopping on and off that train versus waving good-bye at the station, and I know it is greatly appreciated. Great job!
Thanks, Donna. Yep that’s exactly our intent. True philanthropy has to come with care and a shared belief in the mission. Yes, money is important and vital, but there should always be a meaningful human connection.