The Sisters in STEM program is proud to participate in this year’s Canstructure competition, a creative design-and-build event focused on addressing hunger in our community. Organized by the Youth Volunteer Corps and hosted by VOiCEup Berks, teams from across Berks County build large-scale structures entirely from canned goods. After the competition, all cans are donated to Helping Harvest, turning a creative challenge into meaningful support for local families.
This spring, our Sisters in STEM participants are partnering with MG Architects to design and construct a build inspired by this year’s Animation theme. Guided by architect Jazmine Arzuaga, the girls are learning how ideas move from concept to construction while strengthening teamwork, problem-solving, and real-world STEM skills. To complete their structure, the team must secure 750 cans, and all donations are requested by March 6.
Community members can support the project in two ways. Canned goods may be dropped off at the Reading Science Center during open hours on Mondays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monetary donations are also welcome through our online donation link, allowing us to purchase the specific cans needed for the build. A gift of $25 will buy an average of 20 cans, helping us reach our goal while supporting Helping Harvest’s mission to address food insecurity in Berks County.
Every contribution strengthens this learning opportunity for our future engineers and provides meaningful assistance to neighbors in need.
