The Tampa Bay Lightning recently honored Steve and Carolyn Roskamp as the Lightning Community Heroes during a game against the Ottawa Senators. The Roskamps, who received a $50,000 donation from the Lightning Foundation and the Lightning Community Hero program, will donate the money to the Manatee Education Foundation (MEF).
The Roskamps are the creators of the Soar in 4 program, a partnership with the School District of Manatee County that aims to improve early literacy rates among students. Since its launch 10 years ago, the program has supported 17 elementary schools and numerous daycare facilities. Also, free literacy events are held monthly for families at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature.
The program’s impact has been recognized with two national awards and numerous local honors, showcasing the Roskamps commitment to promoting early literacy with community support. Thanks to their generosity, thousands of children in Manatee County have been given access to early literacy materials, assisting in their education before they even step foot into a classroom.
The funds from the grant will be used to support the Manatee Education Foundation’s Soar Lab exhibits. These labs will consist of five areas: Storybooks, Tinkering, Art, Blocks, and Outdoor Play, all carefully selected to align with Florida’s Early Learning Standards. The programming will also improve sensory-friendly literacy options and support over 2,000 children.
The Roscamps invited MEF Executive Director Mary Glass and several members of School District leadership to the Lightning game.
To learn more about Soar in 4, please visit https://soarin4.org/.