Omron Supports Illinois FIRST

OMRON Foundation, Inc. (Hoffman Estates, IL) has announced a donation of $25,000 to Illinois FIRST to promote hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education for young people. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. More than 300,000 youth and more than 120,000 mentors, coaches, and volunteers from over 60 countries participated in the 2013-2014 FIRST season.

“We strongly support Illinois FIRST’s mission, inspiring and engaging young people to discover STEM in a way that is fun and inclusive,” said Nigel Blakeway, the chief executive officer of the Omron Foundation. “We understand firsthand how crucial it is to innovation to foster new ideas and perspectives. In short, when STEM education flourishes, we all benefit.”

Dan Green, the executive director for Illinois FIRST Robotics, says: “We are excited to have them as a sponsor for our STEM programs covering students from the ages of 6 to 18. This great program inspires kids to be interested in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math by facilitating various exciting age appropriate robotics competitions. Their involvement in this program, both financially and with employee volunteers, is helping our youth to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.”

FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while gaining self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills. These are the kinds of efforts that this donation will support within the state of Illinois.

www.ilfirst.org

www.omron.com