Opal-RT is a leader in science & technology. Find out how the company is helping children learn more about science, and have fun doing it.

Given Opal-RT’s strengths in the areas of science & technology, we believe that doing what we can to assist an organization like Les Scientifines takes on even more importance.

Les Scientifines (www.scientifines.com) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing interest and awareness of science and technology among young girls, aged 8 to 12, who are living in the Montreal neighborhoods of Little Burgundy and Saint-Henri – two of the most underprivileged areas in Montreal. Indeed, nearly half of all families living in Little Burgundy and Saint-Henri live below the poverty line.

Founded in 1988, Les Scientifines provides young girls with free access to daily scientific activities after school.  The workshops focus on chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and new information and communications technologies.  They are designed to offer these young girls positive role models and to stimulate the skills and interest that will fuel their determination to persevere with their studies and, ultimately, give them the option of choosing a career in a field of science or technology.

Why help young girls aged 8 to 12 years?
Research indicates that it is at this age that children develop the passion and drive that will carry them further as they mature. Often, if this interest is not developed by the time a child reaches adolescence, it is already too late.

Reaching children between the ages of 8 and 12 years provides the greatest opportunity to break the cycle of poverty, and will enable these girls to get a headstart on making their dreams of a better life for themselves and their families become a reality.
 
Why Science & Technology?
Traditionally, women have been underrepresented in scientific professions in fields such as engineering, computer science, physics and mathematics, even though they possess the same potential as men. Exposing young girls to science & technology at an early age, in a way that is both challenging and fun, will stimulate the development of life skills they will need to potentially follow what many today consider non-traditional career paths.

How does it work?
Monday to Thursday, educators meet the girls after classes at two area schools (Little Burgundy and Victor Rousselot). Students are transported to the headquarters of Les Scientifines where they receive a snack, any required assistance with their homework and one hour dedicated to science projects such as:

• Magic tricks that are explained by mathematics
• Brief experiments with dry ice
• Construction of electric circuits and other electrical experiments
• Computer-based competitions

Not only does this contribute positively to the girls’ education, but also provides an opportunity for them to make new friends, gain a wider view of the world, and most importantly, protect them from many of the negative influences that typically exist on the streets of an economically challenged neighborhood.

Give Generously
This year, Opal-RT Technologies has chosen to support the efforts of Les Scientifines as part of the company’s commitment to being an active member within the Montreal community. Given Opal-RT’s strengths in the areas of science & technology, we believe that doing what we can to assist an organization like Les Scientifines takes on even more importance.

We ask you now to join us in helping Les Scientifines continue the work they started 20 years ago.

With a small donation of $20, you are invited to a multicultural community supper at the headquarters of Les Scientifines on Friday November 27. Please take a moment to complete the form below and confirm your attendance at this special event. Don’t wait, because space is limited.

A tax receipt will be provided for any donations of $50 or more.