Access and Inclusion

The Friends is committed to working with the City of Palo Alto to make the JMZ accessible and welcoming to all. Friends funding supports a wide array of programs, in an effort to provide all children with the access to transformative early STEM learning opportunities, laying the foundation for their future success.

Science Outreach Program

The Friends funds the JMZ’s Science Outreach Program in the Ravenswood City School District, East Palo Alto Charter School (EPACS), and Redwood City schools, providing students in these districts with  exceptional, engaging science programming, right in their classrooms. Thanks to the support of our donors, the Friends provides over 3,000 students with hands-on science lessons each year.

Science with a Twist

The Friends funds Science with a Twist, an engaging after-school science program taught by JMZ Educators in five Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula (BGCP) clubhouses across East Palo Alto, east Menlo Park, and Redwood City.

Scholarships

The Friends funds JMZ Science Summer Camp Scholarships for a number of applicants who meet income eligibility requirements.To apply for a scholarship please submit an Online Application. The Deadline to submit 2025 Applications: February 13, 2025 11:59 p.m.

Super Family Sundays

The Friends funds Super Family Sundays at the JMZ, special appreciation days for families with children who have physical disabilities and learning differences. Designed and led by a team of expert educators, Super Family Sundays address the gap in quality science learning experiences for children with disabilities. These events offer families the chance to enjoy the JMZ in a tolerant and welcoming environment.

Affinity Events

The Friends hosts special events for local nonprofits and community organizations that support underserved children and/or children with special needs and their families to explore the JMZ. These no-cost events are customized to fit the needs of each group, offering enriching and unique experiences that foster learning and curiosity for children and their families.

*Please email info@friendsjmz.org for inquiries.

Continuous Learning

The Friends recognizes the needs of the community are continuously transforming. To ensure the JMZ remains responsive to these changes, the Friends fund initiatives such as DE&I training for JMZ staff, evaluation surveys, and a Community Engagement Coordinator position at the JMZ.