First Robotics Competition Team 340

The First Robotics Competition Team 340 worked to raise money to purchase a new bed for ill and injured children in their community’s local hospital. The team held a fundraiser called "jug wars” and collected $1,700 dollars in milk jugs over a three day period.

Money collected went to Golisano Children's Hospital to purchase a "Bear Bed,” which is a special transport wheelchair bed that nurses and parents can use to take the hospitalized children for a ride out in the hall or to the playroom. It is designed to fit through doorways and go right next to the child's bed. The ill and injured children need stimulation and change of environment. The bed allows them to interact with other children and the parents can find support in each other. It gets them back into a more "normal" environment to play.

Along with the beds, the team also donated Duplos, Legos and books to the hospital. The team has won awards for providing more than 2,000 hours of community service and the team had 19 students receive the Presidents Volunteer Service award in 2009. All of the fundraisers, community service and demonstrations are planned and executed by the students who are mentored by teachers and parents. Not only does their service help the community, it also makes the fifth and sixth graders realize their potential to make a difference.