Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: First Baptist Church of Sylva
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: Sylva First Baptist Church
Mailing Address: 669 West Main Street
City: Sylva
State: NC
Postal Code: 28779
Main Phone: 828-586-2095
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://firstbaptistsylva.com/
Employer ID Number: 58-1960860
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3-26-25
Requested Amount: 5000

Project Title: First Explorers
Project Description:

First Explorers is an outreach of Sylva First Baptist Church, which is under the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship umbrella. First Explorers was created after staff realized there were very few, organized, safe spaces for school-aged children (K-8th grade) in our community to go following the end of school when their parents remain at work. First Explorers is offered 5 days a week from around 3:00-5:30 PM, with transportation to our location available via normal bus routes or direct pickup using our church buses.
After school begins with a snack and time for socialization between the children and our staff. Following snack time, children engage in enrichment and supervised free play while staff prepare for the daily lesson. Each day of the week has its own unique theme. For example, Music Mondays introduce children to various musical instruments with volunteer performers who demonstrate and help guide students on their musical journeys, and Tasty Tuesdays focuses on nutrition, easy recipes, kitchen safety, and making use of various ingredients. Children play outside each day of the week for at least 30 minutes, with Fridays fully dedicated to outdoor activities.
A key element to emphasize is our prioritization of open discussions. Rather than giving children an answer or expecting them to just accept new information, we encourage them to discuss their thoughts and perspectives. Oftentimes, we can learn as much from them as they can from us. A discussion-based format helps students feel more engaged, valued, respected, and listened to, increasing receptiveness. Further, they are able to learn how to respectfully voice their opinions and disagree while still finding ways to get along. The funds requested will support enrollment in our program for 8 children whose families cannot afford our standard tuition.

Total Project Budget: 51,060

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Student Tuition ($30,000 – projected), Church Line Donations ($5,000, committed), Hansen Family Foundation ($5,000 pending/potential)

Project Duration: 12 months
Geographical Area Served: Jackson County, North Carolina
Age Group To Be Served: 5-13

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Sophie
Contact Last Name: Chamberlin
Contact Title: Grant Writer
Contact Phone: 828-399-0439
Contact Email: sophie@totallywritten.com