We are excited to announce this year’s Ember Project recipients from Westside Neighborhood School (WNS), where four incredible student teams have demonstrated exemplary social entrepreneurship and community service.
Celebrating with a Cause: Birthday Parties for Homeless Children
Our first inspiring group collaborated with Worthy of Love to organize a memorable birthday party for children facing housing insecurity. These students designed and screen-printed 150 t-shirts, which were sold online and at their school’s Entrepreneurial Day to raise over $2,400. Their impactful design was subsequently adopted by Worthy of Love, who printed 1,800 shirts to distribute to homeless families in Los Angeles and Houston.
The students volunteered at the party hosted last week by Worthy of Love, an incredible experience for all involved. This initiative not only brought joy but also essential support to those in need.
Building Tranquility: A Sensory Room at Marina Del Rey Middle School
Our second team focused on creating a sensory room for students in need of a calm space at Marina Del Rey Middle School. During WNS’s Donation Drive week, the group successfully gathered essential sensory tools like fidget spinners, puzzles, and weighted blankets, all provided by supportive parents. They will also use Ember Project funds to purchase additional items for the space. They will complete the sensory room later this month, providing a vital resource for neurodiverse students to find peace and focus.
Supporting Families: Partnering with Baby2Baby
Our third group of students worked with Baby2Baby, providing critical supplies to mothers and children facing economic challenges. Through resource gathering during Donation Drive week and additional fundraising, these students have significantly contributed to supporting families in their community, demonstrating compassion and drive in their efforts to make a tangible difference.
Helping Our Furry Friends: Supporting Local Animal Shelters
The final team focused their project on animal welfare, partnering with a local animal shelter to provide necessary supplies and support. By securing donations and a portion of Ember Project funds, these students are helping to improve the lives of animals awaiting adoption, showing their commitment to all community members, regardless of species.
LumenSparQ is proud to provide funding to each of these student groups in support of their missions, helping to amplify their impact and foster a spirit of giving and innovation. These projects not only highlight the incredible potential of our young leaders but also the powerful role of education in catalyzing positive community change. Congratulations to all the students involved; your efforts inspire us and make a profound difference in the lives of many. Keep shining as beacons of hope and change!