Bosch Community Fund awards $50,000 to Kentwood community schools, organizations

- Grants earmarked for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs - Since 2014, the Kentwood community has received more than $85,000 from Bosch Community Fund for STEM and environmental sustainability efforts KENTWOOD, Mich. – The Bosch Community Fund has furthered its support of the Kentwood, Michigan, community with $50,000 in grants to seven programs. The contributions provide resources for various science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs and activities. “As a manufacturing facility, we have a vested interest in the development of tomorrow’s workforce,” said Jim Hagene, plant manager, Bosch’s Kentwood facility. “We are a proud member of this community and honored to provide support in preparing our students for careers in STEM-related fields.” The grants support the following programs in Kentwood: - Kentwood Public Schools: A grant of $5,000 is being used to purchase a FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics parts kit for the East Kentwood High School 2015-16 competition robot. A $9,000 contribution supports the purchase of a metal milling machine that provides East Kentwood High School students with education and experience in machining and metal work. This machine helps increase the availability of student experiences in technical trade and manufacturing areas. - Grand Rapids Urban League: An $11,337 contribution supports Project STEMULATE! (Science, Technology, Engineering Math-Urban League-Apply, Teach and Empower), a program that combines mentoring, training, skill development and academic support and guidance in the development of at-risk middle school students in STEM and information technology. - Kent Education Foundation: A $9,735 grant is assisting in the start-up of seven in-class VEX® Robotics programs for late elementary/early middle school students throughout Kent County. Students will work on building and programming robots, allowing the students to gain skills in computer programming, engineering and design. It’s estimated that this pilot program will reach 245 students. - West Michigan Aviation Academy: A $6,000 grant is going toward the purchase of engineering computer-aided design software to be used by the academy’s various departments, clubs and teams. Students will use the software to design and fabricate prototype products. - Kenowa Hills Public Schools: The $4,804 grant will help the Knights STEM Academy, scheduled to launch in fall 2016, to purchase equipment. In addition to STEM topics, the academy will reinforce skills, including leadership, teamwork, creativity and problem solving. - Emmons Lake Elementary School: A $4,125 grant will support the 2016-17 season’s registration fees and field setup kits for 10 of the school’s FIRST® LEGO® League teams. “These grant recipients are providing valuable programs that offer students fun and educational opportunities that could lead to future career possibilities in STEM fields,” said Richard Walker, commercial director, Diesel and Gasoline Systems. “It’s rewarding to be a part of an organization that sees the value in these type of activities.” Since 2014 the Bosch Community Fund has awarded more than $85,000 to the Kentwood community. About the Bosch Community Fund The Bosch Community Fund, a U.S.-based foundation established in September 2011, awards up to $3 million annually in grants to various 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions. The BCF focuses primarily on the enrichment of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education and the advancement of environmental sustainability initiatives. About Bosch Having established a regional presence in 1906 in North America, the Bosch Group employs some 28,700 associates in more than 100 locations, as of April 1, 2015. In 2014, Bosch generated consolidated sales of $11.3 billion in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. For more information, visit www.boschusa.com, www.bosch.com.mx and www.bosch.ca. The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 375,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2015). According to preliminary figures, the company generated sales of more than 70 billion euros in 2015. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 440 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. In 2015, Bosch applied for some 5,400 patents worldwide. The Bosch Group’s strategic objective is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is “Invented for life.” Additional information is available online at www.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com, twitter.com/BoschPresse.