Courtesy Photo Students work on a science project at the STARBASE Alpena facility.

ALPENA — The Economic Generator Network (EGN) is a non-profit organization, focusing on continually improving the economic vitality of Northeast Michigan Citizens by eliminating barriers to economic growth in the region and capitalizing on the unique competencies here.

The economic generator sees the value STARBASE has on a region that is rich in, and reliant on, diverse careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and other STEM fields. EGN believes in the importance of STEM careers and the impact they can have on the economic success of a community. EGN believes it is a community’s responsibility to prepare their youth to become leaders into the future. Supporting efforts that equip youth in a way that leads to economic growth and greater success of the community is a slam dunk from the EGN perspective. STARBASE Alpena is viewed as a critical piece to preparing and equipping for our future. When STARBASE closed its doors, EGN knew it was time to act and decided to contribute an initial $33,750 to the Alpena site of STARBASE to reopen their doors immediately. In addition, EGN will contribute up to another $67,500 in matching funds to the Alpena program if community contributions collectively raise $67,500.

This money will allow STARBASE to continue operations for several months and give the STARBASE board and staff time to develop a long-term sustainable solution.

For over 30 years, the STARBASE program has given thousands of students nationwide valuable competencies through hands-on learning. Through insight into various STEM careers students see potential futures they may never have thought possible before STARBASE.

One of the critical components to the success of STARBASE is their hands-on, minds-on approach to exploring STEM fields. During this pivotal time in the students’ lives they start to discover and develop a path to their careers of interest. STARBASE’s approach provides a unique experience not otherwise available in Northeast Michigan.

Steve Tezak, Alpena Site Director, shared this about the EGN contribution.

“On behalf of STARBASE Alpena, I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to EGN for their generous donation,” Tezak said. “Their support plays an important role in helping us inspire and educate the next generation of innovators and leaders in Northeast Michigan. Community support like EGN’s allows us to provide hands-on, inquiry-based STEM learning experiences that empower area students and helps shape their futures. We deeply appreciate all community partners who have donated and want to thank anyone who will help us make a difference.” Alpena is one of three STARBASE sites in Michigan and one of more than 90 in the country. EGN board members know the value of the program on the Northeast Michigan region and are pleased to be able to be part of a solution to continuing the program at the Alpena site. You can make matching donations through the STARBASE Alpena website (listed below) or by mailing a check directly to the STARBASE program at 5884 A Street, Bldg. 4, Alpena, MI 49707. Please make checks payable to “STARBASE, Inc.” If your donation is intended specifically for the Alpena program, be sure to write “Alpena” in the memo line.