Wisdom in STEM

Program guide

- 3 minutes read - 452 words

Connecting Experienced Adults with the Next Generation of Innovators

OUR MISSION

At Caring Valley, our mission is to reduce social isolation among the retired community by providing structured opportunities for contribution. We transform professional perspectives and life experiences into social impact, ensuring our seniors remain vital, connected, and valued architects of community benefit.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Wisdom in STEM is a community initiative that brings together adults aged 50+ with technical or scientific backgrounds and middle & high school students exploring hands‑on science.

Our volunteers serve as:

    ✔ Science Fair Judges
    ✔ STEM Mentors
    ✔ Career Storytellers
    ✔ Workshop Leaders
Whether for one day or several months, every volunteer helps build a bridge of learning, curiosity, and connection.

WHO CAN JOIN?

Volunteers (Age 50+)

We welcome:

  • Engineers
  • Scientists
  • IT professionals
  • Technicians
  • Mathematicians
  • Retired educators
  • STEM hobbyists

If you enjoy problem‑solving, sharing knowledge, or encouraging young minds — you belong here.

Students

Middle school and high school students who need:

  • Judging support for science fairs
  • Guidance for STEM projects
  • Inspiration from real‑world professionals

WHY THIS PROGRAM MATTERS

✔ For Older Adults

  • Meaningful volunteer opportunities
  • New friendships and social engagement
  • Intellectual stimulation
  • Renewed sense of purpose
  • Reduced loneliness and isolation

✔ For Students

  • Expert feedback and mentoring
  • Real‑world STEM insights
  • Encouraging role models
  • Stronger projects and presentations

✔ For Schools

  • Reliable, trained volunteer judges
  • Enriched STEM learning environment
  • Community collaboration

HOW IT WORKS

1. Easy Enrollment

Sign up for a single event or ongoing mentorship opportunities.

2. Light Training Provided

We equip volunteers with:

  • Judging guidelines
  • Mentorship tips
  • Youth engagement best practices

No prior teaching experience needed!

3. Match & Participate

You choose:

  • One‑day science fair judging
  • Short‑term student mentoring
  • Guest speaking
  • STEM workshops or clubs

4. Community Reflections

We check in on volunteer well‑being and student experiences — because connection and happiness matter.

PROGRAM OPTIONS

⭐ Science Fair Judge

  • 1–day volunteer role
  • In‑person or virtual
  • Help evaluate student projects with fairness and encouragement

⭐ Project Mentor

  • 8–12 hours over 1–3 months
  • Support students through research, experimentation, and presentation

⭐ STEM Story Circles

Share your career experiences, breakthroughs, funny lab stories, or lessons learned.

⭐ Intergenerational STEM Workshops**

Hands‑on monthly activities:

  • Robotics
  • Coding
  • Environmental science
  • Electronics
  • Engineering design challenges

TESTIMONIALS

“Volunteering made me feel useful again. The students inspired me as much as I inspired them.”
— Rita, retired engineer

“My mentor helped me believe I could be a scientist.”
— Sofia, 8th grade student

📞 JOIN US Become a Volunteer

Share your experience. Inspire young minds.
Help our community grow happier and more connected.

Email: info@caringvalley.org
Website: www.caringvalley.org
Phone: (510) 576‑7116

TOGETHER, WE CREATE A HAPPIER, CONNECTED COMMUNITY.

Be the spark that lights a student’s curiosity — and rediscover the joy of connection.