Previously supported programs

Gemini Ink

Gemini Ink supports writing arts programs for disadvantaged youths and adults. The Rackspace Foundation primarily provides funding for their youth programs in the NEISD (Northeast Independent School District) which supports 30 public classes, training for incoming teaching artists and special events, such as hosting a “Big Texas author talk” with a well-known Texas author.

Our funding supports workshops at three campuses serving a total of 44 students:

• At Campus I, students explored everything from the complexities of friendship to their favorite things, to fantastical imaginings. Through these exercises, students wrote poetry, mini-plays, flash fiction, and comic strips. This workshop also incorporated mindfulness, play, and team-building exercises to promote self-regulation and community.

• At Campus II, students used performance-based writing to reflect on their daily lives through poetry, live storytelling, sensory writing, and flash fiction. These exercises allowed our young writers to play with fresh approaches to personal narratives, odes, and even the editing process. The workshop also incorporated icebreakers, group activities, and a daily mantra to create a sense of community–one where our students felt comfortable taking creative risks.

• At Campus III, students who have a lot of language and learning needs, are currently exploring flash fiction and comics through the studying of fantasy, science fiction, and traditional literature, including folktales, fables, and myths. This is a truly bilingual workshop where both instructors are native Spanish speakers.

Assistance League of San Antonio

Through funding provided by the Rackspace Foundation, the Assistance League of San Antonio has provided support to four of the Magnificent 7 Elementary Schools through their Operation School Bell® program. The program provides children in grades kindergarten through fifth grade with an opportunity to “shop” for new clothes with the help of their member volunteers.

Rackspace Foundation supported 250 Title I students at Camelot, Montgomery, Windcrest and Walzem Elementary Schools with two complete outfits that included: two new pants and shirts, a pair of sneakers, jacket, reading book, hygiene kit, five pairs of underwear and socks.

With support from wonderful partners, like the Rackspace Foundation, we were able to serve more than 16,000 low-income students in Title I schools throughout Bexar County. THANK YOU for your continued support!