Our Mission
The Gongolier Robotics Empowerment Group is a 501(c)(3) organization established to provide opportunities for area students to network and learn through STEM Outreach Programs, Educational Opportunities, and Robotics Programs.
History
Programs and Services: We offer support of a variety of programs and services designed to engage the community in STEM.
Community Engagement: We believe in the power of community and strive to promote volunteerism within. We promote by sponsoring local FIRST Lego Leagues, Women in STEM conferences, Cross-country Events, Hour of Code, STEMographies, RI Air National Guard events, and ROBO Con.
Advocacy and Awareness: While everything that we currently promote is great, we have so much more to do!
The Gongolier Robotics Empowerment Group (G.R.E.G.) has a silly name and a rich history. Robotics Team 5112 was founded by two high school teachers, each named ‘Greg,’ in 2013. Since its inception, the students on the team felt it was absolutely necessary to name all of the robots ‘Greg,’ and to make the name ‘Greg’ fit into fun team activities, e.g. the ‘Gregsgiving,’ or ‘Greg-o-ween’ team holidays.
Consequently, when one of the founding mentors sought to establish a non-profit organization in late 2022 to further support robotics in Southern New England, the team advocated hard for the G.R.E.G. backronym, which stuck.
The G.R.E.G. was then founded in January of 2023 with a Board of Directors who were all committed to furthering the above mission, and since then, has helped to bring more opportunities to area students.
Why We Do What We DO
Non-profits in STEM education work to provide students, especially those from underserved communities, access to high quality science, technology, engineering, and math programs.
To Inspire Future Innovators -
We aim to help spark curiosity and creativity in young learners. Non-profits often run hands-on workshops, robotics clubs, coding camps, and science fairs that encourage students to explore and innovate.
To address Workforce Gaps -
Supporting STEM education helps prepare students for in-demand careers in technology, engineering, healthcare, and research. This strengthens the workforce and keeps communities competitive in a rapidly changing world.
To Promote Diversity and Inclusion -
To increase participation among females, minorities, and other underrepresented groups.
To Build Critical Skills -
STEM programs teach problem-solving, analytical thinking, teamwork, and digital literacy - skills essential for success in any field. These skills can support abilities through engaging, real-world projects.
To Foster Community Growth -
When students gain STEM skills, they can contribute to local innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development. Supporting STEM education non-profits help build stronger, more resilient communities.
