Learning Starts With Supplies

Swamped! Swamped by kids! Well, a large turnout would be the better description.

The day was Sunday, August 27th 2023. It was sunny; the basketball courts at Roger Clemente Park (formerly known as Pailin Park) outlined with canopies, providing necessary shade for eager vendors and sponsors alike. We were of no exception; canopy, table, display board (science fair comes to mind), custom built products, and supplies filled goodie bags. We were ready for the 3 hour event. Or at least, we thought we were.

The RCS Project, a Lowell based nonprofit organization founded by Rothanak Sarath, was hosting their 3rd annual Free Comic Book/Back 2 School Drive. Their mission is to keep kids engaged with their imagination through reading, whether comic books or anything of interest. Keeping kids off the streets. The objective is to allow kids, to be kids.

We met up with Rothanak (Roth) for dinner, where he explained his roots and how his nonprofit came about. He described some challenges he faced during his childhood years, but none were as troubling as a lack of school supplies. We're not talking about laptops and tablets here; we're talking about backpacks and notebooks. The necessary essentials. During middle childhood years, the attention span of a child will easily shift from one focus to another, especially with a lack of tools required. The goal is for kids to start the school year with supplies readily available to maintain focus and keep outside distractions at bay. These crucial years of educational exposure may also increase academic interest in the near future.

We watched the lines pile up. Single file, not for us, but for Rahrah's Jerky. It stretched halfway up the court with parents, grandparents and kids patiently approaching Rahrah's table for backpacks and supplies that were laid out. The crowd started curving towards our direction afterwards, stopping first at 40Built's table to inspect sports cards on display and notebooks that were provided for the kids along with some cards. They approached us with a sudden burst! Flurries of "Hi" and "Thank you" surrounded us from every angle. We handed out small goodie bags with pens, pencils, erasers along with a custom built product, either a pencil holder or a phone stand. En route to the next table, the kids left with goodie bags in hand, followed by their smiley faced chaperones. In less than ten minutes, we were wiped out clean. The rush ended nearly as soon as it came.

Feelings of overwhelming anxiety from earlier were quickly alleviated. We survived the rush! As we stood back, we observed the crowd, making their way to other tables while a new line formed for free pizza. Families that showed up later stopped by for quick chats, asking about our business and reviewing custom built products we had on display. We explained the endless capabilities that 3D printing has to offer, igniting questions about materials, procedures and cost. Our goal was to spread 3D printing exposure to kids, hopefully capturing some interest within the field.

Overall, the event was successful. We met some great vendors, engaged with the community, and left with a strong feeling of self-fulfillment. We're proud of our sponsorship to the event, and look forward to additional ways where we can assist the community. What Roth has created is nothing short of inspiring. We will continue supporting The RCS Project and wish them the very best in their future endeavors. We are RBR, join us on our journey!