Celebrate Freedom brings STEM education event to Irmo

The Celebrate Freedom Foundation will bring science, technology, engineering and mathematics to life during its STEM Education Event on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Moore Park, 7473 Church St. in Irmo.

With the theme “Inspiring Today’s Students for Tomorrow’s Careers,” the event will give students and families an opportunity to experience STEM outside the traditional classroom while meeting veterans, first responders, community organizations and local businesses.

One of the highlights of the day will be a Special Forces Association helicopter landing scheduled for 11 a.m. Attendees will also have an opportunity to see the Celebrate Freedom Foundation’s 1967 AH-1 Cobra helicopter, Humvee and Hunter drones up close.

“This event is about showing young people what is possible for their future,” said Lori Brady, executive vice president of the Celebrate Freedom Foundation and director of STEM education outreach for the group. “When students can see the aircraft, technology and equipment, meet the people who use them and talk directly with employers, STEM becomes more than something they learn in a textbook. They begin to see where it can take them.”

The event will feature participation from the Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen, South Carolina Career Kids, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Irmo Fire Department and Irmo Police Department.

The combination reflects CFF’s mission of using the knowledge and experience of veterans and community professionals to educate and inspire the next generation.

Founded in 1999, the Celebrate Freedom Foundation is a veteran-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides STEM education outreach and workforce-development opportunities. Its programs use aviation, drones, military vehicles and other hands-on exhibits to introduce students to STEM subjects and potential career pathways.

The organization reaches thousands of students each year through school visits and community events across the Southeast.

Beyond the aircraft and STEM exhibits, the Oct. 3 event will have a strong workforce[1]development focus. Local business representatives will be on-site to talk about careers and job opportunities.

For more information about the Celebrate Freedom Foundation and its STEM Education Outreach Program, visit GoCFF.org or contact CFF at 803-822-8812.