Community Outreach Makes Big Hit at Block Party

June 7, 2023 

Columbia, SC- The Coding Comets were invited to participate in the Richland County Neighborhood Improvement Program’s Block Party on June 22, 2023. They attended as guests of the Forest Heights Neighborhood Association after the team took part in the 10th annual plant swap held in the Haskell Heights community back in May. The block party was scheduled to be outside; however, due to inclement weather activities were moved inside to Richland County Assessor’s Office at 2020 Hampton Street in downtown Columbia, SC. There were multiple neighborhoods represented at the event, and each neighborhood had a display showcasing pictures of their community outreach activities. 

Alongside residents and representatives of the Forest Heights community, FRC Team 9315 Coding Comets had an opportunity to share an experiment to demonstrate their interest in STEAM and continue to advocate for afterschool programs that foster a love for science, technology, engineering, mathematics and the arts. Members of the robotics team assisted both children and adults in making lava lamps which required them to mix oil, cold water, alka- seltzer, and food coloring in a jar. The goal was to create a chemical reaction between acids and bases. Both children and adults enjoyed the activity and watched eagerly to see how the liquids settled. Lava lamps can be used to create a calming mood and relaxing environment. 

The Coding Comets were grateful for the invitation to participate in the celebration and enjoyed the fellowship of the many friendly neighbors they met at the block party. To add to an already rewarding opportunity, the Forest Heights community was awarded the Cheryl-Deas Johnson Award for the Best Neighborhood Display. The award recognizes participants who demonstrate “outstanding neighborhood achievement through tireless work, care and dedication” to their community. This community has really embraced the team by providing opportunities to bridge a generational gap through service. We sincerely thank the Forest Heights Neighborhood Association for allowing us to be a part of such a fun event.