Equal access to science, technology, engineering, and math fields are limited, specifically focusing in coding. This gap is what inspired Michelle Lo to bring an Hour of Code event to the Boys and Girls Club of Emerald Valley. The goal of the service grant is to spark interest in coding and the STEM field to children in the Eugene community who may not normally get the exposure. 

The Hour of Code program included different aspects of computer science such as learning concepts like algorithms, programs, and loops. To achieve these lessons Michelle used four activities from the international organization Hour of Code to show that anyone can learn the basics of computer science. 

The children explored computer science topics through online games, as well as activities that didn’t involve technology. These activities created a low-stress and fun learning environment for the participants. 

The Hour of Code event set a precedent for long-term engagement in coding for the Boys and Girls Club and the greater Eugene community.