Short Summary
My name is Pete Schoemann. My wife, Christine, and I have four children. Two girls and two boys. Our two boys have autism. Through hard work and the right interventions early in their life, we’re proud to say that they are both mainstreamed in a public middle school. As parents, we hope for a bright future for them and other students with disabilities. This is why we founded the Central Florida Disability Chamber, an organization that works with people with disabilities on gaining independence through entrepreneurship. Last year, our organization reached out to our youth with disabilities in high schools and started the Youth Entrepreneurship Program or YEP. It is fully supported by the Orange County Public School system as an approved elective course that counts towards the state of Florida's graduation requirements. YEP provides high schools students with disabilities an opportunity to meet with business leaders in our community, learn entrepreneurship lessons from those leaders, and graduate from our program with a clear understanding of what it takes to succeed in business. Each of our students walks out with a business plan for their business idea.
With the help of contributors, we can make YEP a long-term addition to Orange County Public schools. Our hope is that we receive enough contributions to expand YEP so that we run three classes next this fall.
What We Need & What You Get
Funding is needed immediately. We are seeking $10,000 to fund personnel costs of our President and Vice President, so they can focus on YEP. Most of the supplies and location costs are provided in-kind. In addition, we have some great donors that help offset our personnel costs. But, additional funding is needed to be able to continue the extensive work that it takes to set up and run the program.
If we don’t reach our goal, the funding will still help us with YEP. While we would have to seek additional funding sources, your contribution would still go a long way toward changing the lives of students with disabilities.
In addition to tax benefits associated with a tax deductible contribution and recognition in the manner provided in the perks sections of this campaign page, you will get the wonderful feeling that comes with making a difference in the life of another. For the impact on our first class last year, see Impact below.
The Impact
Last year, one student received a full scholarship to Full Sail University based on the business plan he developed at YEP. Another student in that class received an internship with the Magic. Many of the students came out of their shells, becoming more confident and articulate. The current class, which graduates on March 13, 2013, has been just as good. If we can continue the program and expand it, we can change the lives of so many deserving kids.
As our President, Rogue Gallart, likes to say, YEP provides a lasting benefit whether a student decides to go on to college, start a business out of high school, or becomes an employee.
Other Ways You Can Help
If you can’t contribute, please take a few minutes to spread the word. You can do it with the Indiegogo share tools, by e-mail, by word of mouth, or by any other method you prefer.
