Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Our Bright Future, Inc.
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: OBF
Mailing Address: 18 Ballard Ct
City: Southbridge
State: MA
Postal Code: 01550
Main Phone: 774-578-5111
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://ourbrightfutureinc.org/
Employer ID Number: 81-4077496
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 12/23/2025
Requested Amount: $9,100

Project Title: Our Bright Future Digital Arts Program
Project Description:

Our Bright Future (OBF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth through hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) programming. We serve students ages 7–17 through after-school and summer programs in Webster, Worcester, Dudley, and Southbridge, Massachusetts. Each year, OBF provides engaging, skill-building opportunities that foster creativity, confidence, and real-world problem solving for youth who may not otherwise have access to STEAM enrichment.

In November, Our Bright Future reached a major milestone by purchasing our first permanent building, which is currently being renovated into the Southbridge Learning Center. This new space will allow us to expand our reach from serving 575 students annually to 955 students, while providing dedicated rooms for robotics, digital design, 3D printing, bioscience, athletics, and creative arts.

OBF is seeking support from The Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation to strengthen our Cricut and digital design program as we prepare for this expansion. Our digital design program introduces students to design software and creative technology through hands-on projects that blend art, technology, and entrepreneurship. Using Cricut machines and a BAi embroidery machine, students design and produce custom items such as t-shirts, tote bags, hats, bookmarks, and decals. Through this process, students learn design fundamentals, branding, file preparation, and production skills while turning their ideas into tangible products.

Grant funds would be used to purchase two additional Cricut machines, a BAi embroidery machine, and essential materials including vinyl, thread, stabilizer, and blank items such as t-shirts, tote bags, and bookmarks. These resources will ensure that more students can actively participate in creative design activities as enrollment grows.

Total Project Budget: 41,091.90

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): The Amelia Peabody Foundation, Hyde and Dexter-Russell Foundation, Savers Bank, Cornerstone Bank, Southbridge Credit Union, as well as anonymous donors

Project Duration: October 2026 – October 2027
Geographical Area Served: South Central MA
Age Group To Be Served: 7-17

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Brittany
Contact Last Name: Ward
Contact Title: Assistant Director
Contact Phone: 774-633-7153
Contact Email: brittany.ward@ourbrightfutureinc.org