Our Story

We Believe Every Child is a Builder

Spark 313 started with a simple question: why should hands-on learning be a privilege? We're here to change that — one kit at a time.

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How It Started

Born in Detroit, Built for Detroit

In 2024, a group of Detroit educators and community members noticed something troubling: the students who needed hands-on learning resources the most were the ones with the least access to them. Schools in under-resourced neighborhoods couldn't afford science materials, art supplies, or technology kits. STEM education was becoming a privilege of geography and income.

So we built Spark 313. Named after Detroit's iconic 313 area code, we exist to make curiosity-driven learning accessible to every student in our city — regardless of their zip code, family income, or school budget.

We started small: a handful of volunteers assembling electronics kits in a church basement. Today we've distributed over 500 kits to 18 schools and community centers across Detroit, reaching more than 1,200 students.

"The 313 isn't just an area code. It's a declaration of belonging. Every kit we build is addressed to every child who calls this city home."

Founded 2024 · Detroit, MI
500+
Kits Built
1,200+
Students
18
Schools
100%
Always Free
Our Reach
Detroit Public Schools 12 schools
Community Centers 4 locations
Charter Schools 2 schools
After-School Programs 8 programs
Why It Matters

More Than Notebooks and Pencils

Imagine starting your school year without the basic supplies you need. For many students, this is a reality. At Spark 313, we understand the difference a backpack can make. Many of us come from places, or at least know someone who may have had unmet needs in school — a student short pages in a notebook, or a student without writing utensils because theirs were shared with three siblings, or in some cases, not in their family's budget.

But it's not just about the notebooks and pencils. It's about sending a message that someone cares.

A fully stocked backpack means a student can walk into the classroom with confidence, ready to learn and participate. It means avoiding the quiet whisper to their deskmate to borrow the right kind of instrument for the big test. With belonging comes confidence, and with confidence comes a world of possibility.

What We Stand For

Our Core Values

These principles guide every kit we build and every partnership we form.

Equity

Every child, regardless of background, deserves equal access to quality, hands-on learning. We remove cost as a barrier completely.

Curiosity

Wonder and exploration are the foundations of all great learning. Our kits are designed to ask questions, not just answer them.

Community

We're stronger together. Parents, teachers, donors, and volunteers all play a critical role in getting every kit into a child's hands.

Empowerment

Our kits don't just teach — they build confidence, agency, and the belief that every child can create something remarkable.

The People

Meet Our Team

The community members, educators, and builders behind every kit.

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Ava Elia
Co-Founder & President
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Alex Elia
Co-Founder & Board Member
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Johnny Shouneyia
Team Member
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Liam O'Callaghan
Team Member
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Scarlett Lossia
Team Member
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Anika Zacharias
Team Member
Our Journey

Milestones Along the Way

Spring 2024
Spark 313 Founded

Five Detroit educators and community members gather in a church basement and assemble the first 12 electronics kits.

Fall 2024
First School Partnership

Partnered with Detroit Cass Tech to pilot our electronics kit with 60 students. 94% reported wanting to do more hands-on projects.

Winter 2024
United Way Partnership

Secured a foundational grant from United Way of Southeastern Michigan, enabling us to scale to 5 new kit types and 8 more schools.

2025
500 Kits Milestone

Crossed 500 kits distributed across 18 schools and community centers. Our volunteer team grew to 80+ members from across metro Detroit.

2026 & Beyond
Growing the Spark

Goal: 2,000 kits, 50 schools, and a dedicated assembly space in the heart of Detroit. Help us get there.

Ready to Join the Movement?

Whether you donate, volunteer, or spread the word — every action helps put a kit in a child's hands.

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