#PeopleofSTEAM is an ongoing blog series that highlights diverse voices in our community and the impacts they are making on the world of FIRST^®, the world of STEAM, and/or in their own backyard. 

“It’s okay to take up space. By that, I mean that your voice, your presence, your skills are not an inconvenience. The perspective you have on the world has value.” FIRST alum, volunteer and Rainbow STEM Alliance board member, Tristan, shares his inspiration and impact in the latest #PeopleofSTEAM blog.

Read more about Tristan's impact >>

FIRST is a proud partner of Project THRIVE, a multi-year effort led by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation to create more equitable, inclusive support systems and communities for LGBTQ+ youth.

Learn more about the resources available to the FIRST community in our blog post >>

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, FIRST relies on the generosity of donors like you to continue its mission of inspiring young people to become innovators and problem-solvers. As we prepare to launch the next season, we need your support to expand our reach and build a world of endless possibilities.

Here are a few ways to help us accomplish our mission of serving more diverse youth to build confidence and skills through our programs:

🤖 Invest in our mission and become an individual donor. Donating to FIRST will help students access resources, mentorship, and opportunities to learn and build STEM skills.  You can also support your local region or team directly.

🤖 Participate in your company’s matching gifts program. Many employers offer a matching program for charitable donations and/or volunteer hours. This means that your donation of time or treasure to FIRST could be matched, doubling its impact. Check to see if your employer participates or contact your human resources department.

🤖 Share your #FIRSTinspires passion with your friends and family by creating a fundraiser for FIRST and asking them to get involved on Facebook or Instagram.

🤖 Give your time as a volunteer with FIRST next season! Register as an event volunteer, coach/mentor a local team, or sign up to become a mentor on the FIRST Mentor Network.