Aurora, IL – October 3, 2023 – APS Training Academy (APSTA) was awarded a $10,000 grant through the generous support of the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley (CFFRV). In July, APSTA joined dozens of community organizations recognized for their efforts in education. Since 2020, APSTA has empowered vulnerable communities in Aurora by providing free and low-cost education and vocational opportunities in STEM.
Since 1948, CFFRV has grown from one charitable fund with assets of $5,000 to over 500 charitable funds with assets exceeding $100 million. Scholarship funds have distributed over $19 million to local students. Funds also have been created to benefit social service agencies, educational and healthcare organizations, the arts and culture, religious institutions, and the environment. Grants and scholarships awarded by the Foundation since its founding total more than $70 million. If your organization would like to learn more please visit CFFRV.org
APSTA Founder & Board President, Harish Ananthapadmanabhan expressed his gratitude when announcing how the funds would be allocated, “Access to technology continues to be a barrier for the families in the community. The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley grant means more than computers; these funds allow us to execute full classes for children and adults. It is difficult to deny families a spot in the classroom simply because we do not have enough devices. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Every penny will be put to good use for many years to come.”
APS Training Academy Summer Highlights More than 1,200 learners were served through APSTA during FREE STEAM Summer Camps, pushing the total number of students to over 5,300 to date! APSTA partnered with local organizations to reach students in their neighborhoods and is proud to have served at Urban Youth Ministries, Alive Teen Center, Sacred Heart, and Main Baptist.
APS Training Academy Plans for Growth “2023 has seen a lot of expansion for us.” reported Executive Director, Nicole Astra. “The Industrial Robotics program announced in December of last year launched in April and has been incredibly successful. Currently, both children and adults have completed the course, and we are creating courses exclusive to veterans. Life Skills courses for adults taught in English and Spanish are off to a great start as well. We have served 128 adults through a pilot program and are seeking funding to incorporate weekly adult courses alongside our K-8 programming.”
Join APS Training Academy for their Annual Fundraiser The 3rd Annual Masquerade Gala returns on October 27 at the Paramount Meyer Ballroom. The Gala will feature dinner, dancing, a DJ, and auctions. Be a part of the significant contributions APSTA is making to the Aurora community. Tickets are available at apstrainingacademy.org/gala
APS Training Academy is Hiring! If you love kids and are passionate about education equity, please apply at apstrainingacademy.org and send a resume with cover letter or video resume to nicole@apstrainingacademy.org on or before 11-1-2023. Three instructor positions are available, and APSTA will train the right individuals regardless of their background in STEAM.
For more information about APS Training Academy classes, job and volunteer opportunities, partnerships, and sponsorships, contact nicole@apstrainingacademy.org or (331) 201-2687 or visit their website at apstrainingacademy.org.