Chocolate for Breakfast? The Story Behind the STEM Gift Drive’s Sweetest Tradition
Chocolate for breakfast might sound a little unconventional. That’s the point.
This unique event is poised to become the signature even of the STEM Gift Drive.
The STEM Gift Drive Chocolate Breakfast was inspired by our CEO’s previous colleague at the University of Central Florida, John Pittman. There was an annual tradition for his birthday – a chocolate breakfast. And we don’t mean pancakes with chocolate chips – we mean brownies, mousse, and cake. It was fun, unexpected, and memorable—the kind of tradition that brought people together simply because it made them smile.
That spirit made it a natural fit for the STEM Gift Drive.
The Chocolate Breakfast is our way of bringing supporters together at the beginning of the giving season for something that feels less like a meeting and more like a celebration. Guests are invited to bring a chocolate dish to share, connect with others who believe in creating opportunities for young people, and help us officially kick off another season of STEM giving.
At its heart, the event reflects something important about the STEM Gift Drive itself: making a difference doesn’t have to be complicated.
A collection box in a workplace. A STEM toy added to a shopping cart. A conversation with a colleague. A few people deciding to do something together. Small actions can build into something much bigger.
Since 2015, the STEM Gift Drive has brought businesses, organizations, volunteers, and individual supporters together to place STEM toys, games, and books into the hands of young people who might not otherwise have access to them. The Chocolate Breakfast gives that community a chance to gather, reconnect, welcome new supporters, and begin the season with a little fun.
And perhaps there is something appropriately scientific about starting with chocolate. After all, good ideas often begin with experimentation.
This one just happens to be delicious.
Join us for the Chocolate Breakfast and help us kick off another season of creating opportunities for future innovators.
