Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: The Knowledge Exchange
Legal Name (if Different): The Knowledge Exchange, inc.
Also Known As: TKE
Mailing Address: PO BOX 112
City: Port Royal
State: VA
Postal Code: 22535
Main Phone: 540-412-8431
Main Fax:
Organization Website: tkenonprofit.org
Employer ID Number: 85-0885178
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3) Public Charity

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: February 20, 2026
Requested Amount: $5,000

Project Title: Empowering Young Minds
Project Description:

Empowering Young Minds is a holistic academic and social-emotional learning initiative serving K–12 students across Fredericksburg and the surrounding Planning District 16 region. The program provides targeted math and English tutoring combined with innovative enrichment experiences, including Dungeons & Dragons–based role-play learning and structured after-school support.

Many of the students we serve face barriers due to poverty, disability, language challenges, and post-pandemic academic setbacks. Empowering Young Minds addresses these disparities through individualized tutoring (1–3 sessions weekly), small-group academic support, and enrichment programming that builds executive functioning, confidence, and resilience.

One of our students, Adriana, began tutoring with us struggling in reading comprehension and lacking confidence in her academic abilities. With consistent one-on-one support and encouragement, she began improving her grades and participating more actively in class. Her mother later shared that Adriana now reads independently at home and approaches challenges with a new sense of determination. Through financial assistance made possible by community donors, Adriana’s family was able to access services they otherwise could not afford. Today, she participates in both tutoring and enrichment programming—thriving academically and socially.

Through structured storytelling and collaborative gameplay, students strengthen literacy, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and teamwork skills. At least 75% of participants complete a written creative project demonstrating literacy growth, and 85% identify and apply self-management strategies through gameplay and mentorship.

The program currently serves approximately 35 students annually, many from low- to middle-income families. Funding will support tutor compensation, instructional materials, enrichment supplies, and program sustainability—ensuring more students like Adriana gain the confidence and tools to succeed.

Total Project Budget: $20,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $5,000 Moose Lodge #1655, $1,500 Rapp Community Foundation and afforable service fees.

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Planning District 16 (Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, Fredericksburg, & King George), with virtual services nationwide.
Age Group To Be Served: K–12 students (ages 5–18)

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Maija-liisa
Contact Last Name: Penn
Contact Title: Chief Executive Officer
Contact Phone: 540-412-8431
Contact Email: maijap@tkenonprofit.org