The Appleton Youth Education Initiative is a student-driven organization launched in 2009 to help better prepare high school students for the transition into adulthood and continued education after high school. Focused on creating equity and inclusion in the academic atmosphere, the organization accomplishes its mission in a variety of different ways.

 

The first is to empower students who are self-driven to succeed. One factor which makes AYEI a unique asset rests with its unparalleled encouragement of students to take ownership of their own learning goals. Our members pitch project ideas, take the initiative to apply for grants, and transform their ideas into realities under the guidance of advisors with industry and leadership experience from around the country.

 

Our second goal is to help organize and execute innovative projects. By drawing on the creativity and talents of our youth, we approach solving educational issues and problems as a bridge between communities and new opportunities awaiting. Events including HackAppleton and our College Camps have connected hundreds of students to global technology power-houses as well as the world’s most selective universities through unique presentations and hands-on competitions.

 

​Third, we support projects financially. While there are many beneficial projects that require few capital expenditures, many innovative endeavors can be accelerated with support from the AYEI. The AYEI is exempt from federal income tax under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 501(c)(3). Donors can deduct contributions they make to the AYEI under IRC Section 170. The AYEI is qualified to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under Section 2055, 2106, or 2522.