Team 303 Robotics Alliance of Mentors and Parents

Team 303 is an active participant in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition, a global program that unites more than 59,000 robotics teams from over 80 countries. As we continue our journey in this competition, we are seeking like-minded partners who share our passion for education, innovation, and community engagement. Through FIRST Robotics, our members gain an understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering, computer science, and project management at the high school level. The design, construction, and operation of our 120-pound robots are done completely by the students, with guidance and support from our mentors.

However, our impact extends beyond the competition arena. For over two decades, Team 303 has been a valuable presence in the community, dedicated to fostering a love for STEM fields. We have mentored seven FIRST teams across different divisions within our district’s elementary and middle schools. Team 303 holds an annual STEAM fair. Through the years, attendance has gone from 170 kids in 2016 to 350 kids in 2021. Team 303 ran over 40 booths where students could interact with hands-on STEAM activities. Recognizing the diversity of students in our community, the team worked to increase accessibility to STEAM for individuals with sensory disabilities by hosting our annual Sensory Fair, an opportunity for students with sensory disabilities to engage with STEAM booths in an environment that is conducive to their needs.

Furthermore, our team has a dedication to increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEAM fields. Notably, our #iamvalid campaign aims to increase awareness around mental health stigmas and inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community within STEAM fields. The team hosted a Color Run to increase visibility and raised over $5,500 that will go towards a scholarship for LGBTQ+ individuals looking to go into a STEAM major.

Funds donated will be used towards fueling our robot's fabrication and maintenance over the season, training towards new members and all of our outreach efforts. Thank you!

Since 2011, the Robotics Alliance of Mentors and Parents, or RAMP at Bridgewater NJ, has been using the STS warehouse as the base of operations for planning, designing, and building robots for their students. However, due to the damage recently caused by Hurricane Ida, a nearby toxic waste ground flooded into the warehouse, rendering the facility unusable. Millions of dollars worth of machinery, tools, and office equipment accumulated from decades of saving and budgeting have been lost as a result.

STS was a place of comfort and pride for RAMP’s students. Throughout the years, STS became a place where the team members met significant milestones, from learning how to hold a drill to qualifying for the FIRST World Championship. It was also where the team spent months organizing STEAM-focused events for younger students and coordinating the startup of 12 new robotics teams in their district. Not only was it where the students spent 10+ years honing their technical skills and making invaluable memories, but STS was also an anchor for the robotics community. Neighboring rookie teams would occasionally visit the facility for its full sized practice field.

RAMP hopes for the continued support from their community members in order to recuperate their program. The team has become a prominent force in their district, educating young students at local schools, fairs, and parades. Because working at STS is no longer feasible, the team is looking for a permanent space for their students to coordinate a robot build. To do this, they need your help! A new facility would require new machinery, equipment, furniture, tooling, and various other office supplies. By donating, you can help them rebuild their program and continue spreading STEAM education. Thank you!