Quick Facts at a Glance
Mission:
The mission of The Discovery Center is to shape positive attitudes about race and differences, reduce isolationism between urban and suburban communities and improve academic skills and interest in math, science and language arts.
Vision:
The Discovery Center works toward a future where people of all ages recognize, accept and value celebrate individual and cultural diversity.
Founders:
Paul Newman & Joanne Woodward Newman
History and Program:
The Discovery Center began in 1992 as a pilot program of The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, a program benefiting children with life threatening illnesses, championed by Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward Newman. In 2002, The Discovery Center became a separate 501 (c) 3 organization and was incorporated in the State of CT as a nonprofit. The program brings together 4th, 5th and 6th grade students from Central Connecticut urban centers and surrounding suburban/rural communities for a year round diversity/teambuilding experience with a focus on math, science and language arts. The program takes place in the fall and spring of the academic year and culminates with a residential experience at a neutral site - YMCA Camp Woodstock in Woodstock, CT.
The Discovery Center also conducts Leadership workshops for students, 4th grade thru college age, educators and community groups that focuses on teaching techniques and strategies to accept, value and work with individuals from different racial, cultural and socio - economic backgrounds.
Children Served:
Since 2002, 10, 949 4th, 5th and 6th grade students have participated in the residential program. For FY 09 - 10 student participation in the residential program is projected to be between 2,800 and 3,200 with another 300 students participating in Leadership Workshops. Over 50% of the students participating in the program come from families at or below the poverty level for a family of four.
Budget & Fund Raising Goal:
The operational budget for FY 09 - 10 is $925,000 with a fund raising goal of $1,025,000.
Funding:
Approximately 93% of the funds needed to conduct the program are donated by individuals, private and public foundations, corporations and governmental agencies. Student families pay a commitment fee ranging from $5 to $75 depending on the session they are attending and families income level and ability to pay. The Discovery Center does provide scholarships to students whose families have demonstrated financial need and have excellent academic and behavior records.
Cost per student:
The cost for The Discovery Center to conduct a year round educational diversity program per student is $500 for a week long residential program, $375 for a 2 1/2 day residential program and $125 for a one day residential session.
IRS EIN and State of Connecticut non profit registration number:
The Discovery Center's IRS EIN number is 02 - 0567674 and State of Connecticut nonprofit registration number is 12108.
News Room
Use the links below to read our press releases or review what is being said about The Discovery Center in various media outlets.
Video's and Publications:
More information to follow.
Media Inquires:
Allan Wilson
Executive Director
Tel: 860 - 284 - 9489
allanwilson@discoveringdiversity.com
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