USO Tumon Bay Enriches Youth with Dedicated Local Program

USO offers a variety of programs to serve our military community, from Coffee Connections for spouses to Toddler Socials for little ones. Coffee Connections provides a welcoming space for military spouses to build friendships and create lasting connections. Meanwhile, Toddler Socials offer a safe and engaging environment where parents and their children can play, bond, and interact with other families. These programs help strengthen our military community, fostering support and camaraderie every step of the way.

At USO Tumon Bay, a desire to reach a different age group through programming was identified. Center Operations Manager ErikaRose Thomas utilized her experience at a previous USO center to expand the Tumon Bay’s youth offerings with a dedicated program for school-age children. It was with this passion, in collaboration with Center Operation Specialist, April Moreno, that USO Tumon Bay brought Future Innovators to life.

Future Innovators provides school aged children with opportunities to explore creativity, critical thinking and teamwork through engaging, hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (S.T.E.A.M.) activities. Each session includes a fun craft followed by a science experiment, allowing children to learn through play and discovery.

Launched in October 2024, kids have explored science by making self-inflating balloons, invisible ink, - and fireworks in a jar! They’ve expressed their artistic side by painting ceramics, and tackled engineering challenges by building turkey cages, gingerbread houses, spinners, - and even a mini electric airplane!

In our military community, home schooled families appreciate having STEAM focused learning opportunities for their children. Since it’s launch, the program has been a hit! Here is some feedback from our Future Innovator’s parents:

I am very happy with the time and day this was held. Super excited that S.T.E.A.M. events are being held. Thank you!

It is always wonderful to come in…my son looks so forward to these every month. So well thought out for the kids. Great crafts, food and activities!

I do like that there are crafts and science project every time.

Fun activity for the little one, great experience! April and Erica were patient and helpful.

My son loved building the aircraft. It was challenging but seeing step by step he was intrigued.

This program not only nurtures young minds but also continues USO’s mission of supporting military families by ensuring children have a space to learn, grow and connect with peers in a positive and supportive environment. USO Tumon Bay has broadened its reach to support its commitment to serving every member of the military family and inspiring young minds.

For future youth programming and upcoming events please visit Guam.uso.org/events.