many thanks to Our Partners

Boys & Girls Clubs of Pueblo County’s proven youth development strategy has been the solution for children and teens in need. The I Will Project's successful afterschool and summer enrichment programs on aquaponics (IFIZ) began locally at one clubhouse, and was expanded with substantial 2021 grant funding from NASA to 10 sites a year later!  Over 150 members in four southern Colorado counties experienced the 6-week STEM program on growing plants and fish together, interacted with a scientist from Kennedy Space Center, and brainstormed about their future careers. Each received an individual tabletop grow system mini-tank to take home. In 2022, this outreach continues in Pueblo with other funding to create a fun, positive learning environment for 4th-12th grade members.   

Campbell's Flowers and Greenhouses is a retail floral and garden business established in 1956 by brothers Fred & Jim. 

Zachary Stanifer is the present owner and general manager, and is a great asset on The I Will Projects Board of Directors. He generously offered 12x12 of floor space in his northside greenhouse to build our IFIZ custom aquaponics system. Construction began in December 2020, and the complete system of fish and plants were functioning 4 months later. During opened hours, the general public and kids in the youth program enjoy free tours and learn about the benefits of this growing method. 

Villa Bella Expeditionary School is the site of our first school-based aquaponics system, custom built and operating since 2021. The K-5th grade school provides an engaging learning environment that ignites students’ interest and propels achievement. The scholars are excited to interact with the 100 gal. set-up that includes a large tank, plant bed and vertical grow tower, on display in the cafeteria.

Pueblo Community College (PCC) has the most affordable tuition of any college or university in  southern Colorado and flexible class options. The I Will Projects funds an opportunity for nursing students in PCC's  Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program to receive nine weeks of customized intensive hospice and palliative care education. The lessons cover necessary skills for direct patient care and family interaction for end-of-life situations, areas that historically have been overlooked or omitted in healthcare provider training in the past.  

The I Will Project has sponsored student interns from CSU-Pueblo’s Communities to Build Active STEM Engagement (CBASE) Title III grant program with good success. Undergraduates have built aquaponic systems, reviewed curriculum, and installed solar energy systems, all while being mentored by our team. We are fortunate to interact with Life Science professors and instructors for research and resources. Some students have been hired temporarily to do aquaponic design, maintenance and instruction, and bring fresh perspectives to our vision.