Investments in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education can help prepare today’s youth to thrive in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world. By integrating creativity with critical thinking and problem-solving, STEAM programs can help empower students to explore real-world challenges through hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration.
With the goal of raising funds for local STEAM education programs, Indovinya, the specialty chemical division of Indorama Ventures, and the Beaumont Children's Museum have been partnering since 2022 to host its “Fish-O-Rama” community engagement and fundraising event in Port Neches Park, Texas. The event helps address the challenge of providing quality education and ensures that youth have the knowledge and tools to contribute to a sustainable future.
Fish-O-Rama features fishing competitions, a Captain’s Dinner to promote recycling and environmental preservation, and an Angler Education Awareness course that emphasizes sustainable fishing practices and ecosystem conservation.
Since its inaugural 2022 event, Fish-O-Rama continues to grow in scope and impact. In its first year, the event raised $469,000. The 2023 Fish-O-Rama raised more than $700,000, a 53 percent increase from the year before, and exceeded the company’s goal by more than $200,000.
In 2024, Fish-O-Rama outreach activities brought together 135 volunteers and more than 1,000 community members and netted over $780,000, much of which is directly returned to local educators as STEAM grants. Plans for the 2025 event, taking place July 25-26, are underway, with a fundraising goal of $750,000.
The event has also grown to incorporate other activities, including a chili cook-off, a golf tournament and bingo competitions.
The money raised goes to support STEAM grants for local K-12 teachers, fund a free summer camp for high schoolers focused on STEAM concepts, and develop a recycling exhibit at Beaumont Children’s Museum.
By fostering partnerships with local businesses, conservation groups, educators, and industry leaders, the Fish-O-Rama event has become a catalyst for community development and educational advancement. These collaborations not only amplify the reach of environmental and STEAM initiatives but also demonstrate how corporate responsibility can drive meaningful change and help build trust, promote equity, and create a resilient, informed, and empowered community.