What started as a local program in Arizona has evolved into a nationwide initiative, enabled by the support of Avnet Cares.
Initially launched in rural Arizona in 2021, the Little Free STEM Library project began with the monthly distribution of 300 STEM kits in partnership with the SciTech Institute in Tempe, AZ. The mission of the project was to expand access to STEM education to youth in remote areas of Arizona through the use of little free libraries. The kits offer young learners hands-on opportunities through monthly themed activities and include all of the supplies needed. Since Avnet Cares became a supporter in 2022, the initiative has expanded into ten states, where Avnet employees not only assemble extra kits, they deliver the kits to Little Free Libraries in their local communities. Since its inception, the program has distributed 9,500 STEM kits and Avnet Cares has had 150 volunteers participate in the project.
Avnet’s Integrated Solutions center and warehouse, located in Chandler, AZ, recently became involved in the project as well. The two locations packed a total of 800 kits with the help of 50 volunteers. Those kits were delivered to After School All Star programs (across 8 states), along with local AZ STEM programs at Boys & Girls Clubs of Scottsdale, ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth, Future Stars, Swift Youth Foundation and Education Empowers.
Watch Avnet’s video highlighting this initiative: STEM Project Video.
