Frequently Asked Questions about ELiTE
- How is Emerging Leaders in Technology & Engineering funded?
- Where is ELiTE located?
- How much do ELiTE’s students pay for the program?
- Where do my donations go?
- Will my donation be tax-deductable?
- How does ELiTE choose locations?
- How can I get involved?
- I would like to participate in the program but am worried about the cost, can you help me raise funds to travel?
- I am not an engineer. Can I still contribute to the program?
How is ELiTE funded?
ELiTE is currently supported by generous donations (from people like you!). We are currently pursuing long-term funding sources to continue to grow our programs.
Where is ELiTE located?
ELiTE is incorporated in New York. However, we currently offer programs throughout the year in Ghana and Jamaica, and we are always looking for new communities to collaborate with.
How much do ELiTE's students pay for the program?
Our programs are offered free of charge to our students. Many of our students come from socioeconomically disadvantaged communities, so it is very important for us to provide our programs at little to no cost.
Where do my donations go?
Your donations are directly applied to the operating costs of ELiTE's programs. Our team is composed entirely of volunteers and we collect no payment from students during the program. Your contribution will be used to purchase experiment supplies and design project materials, fund local field trips (during the 2010 Nsawam, Ghana program we went to a water purification plant!), pay for student snacks, and support the volunteer teachers while they teach.
Will my donation be tax-deductable?
YES! ELiTE is exempt from Federal income tax under section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Therefore your contributions are deductible under section 170 of the Code.
How does ELiTE choose locations?
ELiTE brings hands-on learning to students who cannot afford adequate educational resources. We choose our location based on apparent financial difficulties of students to obtain adequate education, strong community support of schools and students, and a motivated group of young people interested in making a difference. ELiTE's first month-long summer program was held in Nsawam, Ghana, and was selected because of the strong ties between ELiTE's founders and our local Ghanaian partners. We have since expanded to Kingston (Jamaica), Cape Coast (Ghana), Koforidua (Ghana), and Magu-Mwanza (Tanzania). Please contact us if you would like to suggest a community we should reach out to.
How can I get involved?
We always have space for dedicated help. Anyone interested in working with us should email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , ELiTE's Director.
I would like to participate in the program but am worried about the cost, can you help me raise funds to travel?
We understand that the cost of participation may be a deterrent for some interested individuals. Our team will gladly assist with fundraising through our organization to support your participation. Tax deductible donations may be made to our organization in your name. Additionally, you may work with us to organize a fundraiser with shared proceeds going towards your programs fees, travel, and lodging.
I am not an engineer. Can I still contribute to the program?
You do not need to be an engineer to serve as a SITE facilitator. ELiTE seeks motivated individuals from diverse educational backgrounds to join our team. While a background in engineering or another technical field may provide some candidates with a perceived advantage, SITE applicants may ellaborate on their background and interest within the application essays.
