Fab Lab & Sarasota Police Bring Racing Thrills to Housing Authority Kids

August 2, 2024 | Sarasota

The Sarasota Housing Authority is buzzing with excitement as the Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab (Fab Lab) teams up with the Sarasota Police Department (SPD) to deliver an interactive learning experience for 12 elementary school students in the Housing Authority’s Youth Thrive Summer Enrichment program. Over the course of a month, students were challenged to customize and race remote-control cars, a nod to the Fab Lab’s annual RC Custom Car Open competition.

Each student team received a remote-control car kit, generously sponsored by the Sarasota Police Department Foundation. With the support of Fab Lab volunteers and SPD officers, students decorated their cars according to a Lilo & Stitch theme, which was chosen by the children during the first session. The final session will see students racing their uniquely designed cars for fun prizes.

“We’re excited to be back at the Housing Authority, making learning enjoyable and empowering children to bring their ideas to life,” said Ping Faulhaber, Executive Director of the Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab. “It’s a pleasure to partner with the Sarasota Police Department to provide enriching experiences to students who might not ordinarily have access to such opportunities.”

“Our partnership with the Fab Lab and the Sarasota Housing Authority exemplifies the core mission of our Community Relations Unit,” said Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche. “By engaging with our youth in hands-on, educational activities, we keep their minds stimulated and create lasting, positive relationships. This collaboration is a testament to the importance of community partnerships in making a meaningful impact on our children’s lives.”

This summer project highlights Fab Lab’s ongoing commitment to bringing unique, hands-on programming to local organizations and schools serving underprivileged children, fostering access to and interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) fields.

“This collaboration with Suncoast Science Center and SPD is a partnership that helps close the gap in access to high quality STEAM educational opportunities,” added Sarasota Housing Authority Director of Resident Services Michelle Stears. “Our Summer Enrichment students gain knowledge and build skills related to STEAM and teamwork, while hopefully building positive and lasting relationships with SPD officers.”

To learn more about the STEAM programming offered by the Fab Lab, visit suncoastscience.org.