The New Orleans-based STEM NOLA and The HOPE Program have been recognized as national leaders in providing hands-on opportunities for youth in science, technology, engineering and math education. The founder of STEM NolaA, Dr. Calvin Mackie, believes that understanding basic science and understanding of technology is essential at a young age. The Hope Program's HOPEworks initiative provides participants with career-focused training and professional skills that support long-term success, including communication, financial literacy, workplace readiness, and resilience. Both organizations use Earth Month to highlight environmental and technological issues affecting underinvested communities. The partnership with the NBA Foundation has allowed both organizations to expand their work and create even more opportunities for those who need them.