Jen and Tonic Fundraiser to Support Robotics, STEM Programs

EAST PALESTINE, Ohio – The Jenifer R. Powers Fruit Memorial Fund will host its annual Jen and Tonic Polo event Aug. 17.

The community fundraiser, scheduled from 2 to 8 p.m. at the Paul J. Powers Memorial Polo Field, will bring the community together for polo matches, tailgate contests, robotics, music and food.

Funds raised will go toward supporting STEM education and raising awareness about the significance of scholastic robotics programs in northeastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania.

The event is a tribute to the late Dr. Jenifer R. Powers Fruit, whose love for polo’s camaraderie and celebratory atmosphere inspired the initiative. After Powers Fruit died, her family sought to honor her legacy while making a positive impact in the area. In 2017, they hosted the first Jen and Tonic fundraiser and committed to using the event to support STEM and robotics education. Funds raised during the inaugural event kickstarted the East Palestine robotics program.

“This event not only commemorates the memory of Jenifer, but also serves as a way to bring awareness to parents and educators on how involvement in robotics can translate into a career path,” said Justin Powers, director of the Jen and Tonic Polo event. “We invite everyone to join us in honoring Jenifer’s legacy and promoting STEM education, something Jen would have loved to support.”

The event will feature the Robotics Pavilion, a showcase of at least 10 robotics programs from area schools. Participating schools will have the opportunity to display and demonstrate their robots and discuss their program offerings.

“As an educator, I see how this program is so much more than an after-school activity. It’s preparing students for their future careers,” said Dan Kibler, coach of the East Palestine robotics program. “We’re so appreciative of the Jen and Tonic Polo event for supporting the next generation of innovators in our community.”

The Jen and Tonic Polo event is open to the public. Tickets can be purchased HERE in advance or at the gate on the day of the event. Donations will also be accepted from those who are unable to attend the event.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.