Akron Middle Schoolers put a “pin in” Akron neighborhoods
During 2024 Camp What If: Akron at Summit Lake Community Center, middle schoolers explored the community of Akron, discovering new neighborhoods and cultures apart from just their own.
During camp, a simple question was posed to middle schoolers: “What if you could create something that represents your community?”
Inspired by this question, a group of 12 middle schoolers embarked on a journey of brainstorming, designing, and prototyping ideas that encapsulate the spirit of Akron. Through mentorship and hands-on workshops, these students developed their concepts into market-ready products and created a business called Pininit Akron to benefit Akron nonprofits.
“What if we started a business to celebrate our neighborhoods AND raise money to help our neighbors?”
Amari, Gideon, Andrew, Kori, Zen, Ethan, De’Vawn, Aaron, Emilia, Oliver, Alex, and Manny worked hard to design stickers and t-shirts that represented and celebrated each neighborhood in Akron. They even mocked up a website to share their story and passion for the community of Akron.
Pininit Akron Designs
Pininit Akron
In their own words:
“Our products celebrate Akron’s neighborhoods and their unique cultures and diverse people. These shirts and stickers are made to celebrate and improve the neighborhoods of Akron!
We care about this because it can be hard to find good quality and cool products that highlight your hometown. We care about Akron because it’s our home. And we embrace it.
The money we raise supports Community Development Corporations in Akron so we can make a positive impact in our neighbors lives.”
Partner with TomTod
Are you inspired by these middle schoolers?
Do you want to partner with a group of middle schoolers making real community change?
Whether you run a business, volunteer on a board, or just enjoy living and working in the community, your perspective is valuable to middle schoolers like these.
Fill out the survey below to let us know what community you’d like to be involved in, your availability, and contact info. We’ll be in touch about future opportunities to answer any questions and tell you exactly what to expect!