Monday, January 13, 2025
The Roboboogie robotics team from Hewlett High School hosted their first litter cleanup along Merrick Road in Valley Stream, bringing together multiple local robotics teams for a collaborative environmental initiative on Nov. 23.
Team co-captain Zarina Wadiwala said the team was inspired by clean-ups put on by the Valley Stream Beautification Committee in the past.
“We had this idea that we wanted to host our own litter cleanup because not only would it be community service and volunteering, but it would also be an opportunity to collaborate with other robotics teams,” Wadiwala said.
RISE Robotics from Half Hollow Hills and Nexus, another Hewlett High School team took to the Valley Stream streets with Roboboogie.
As a FIRST Tech Challenge team, Roboboogie operates with up to 15 members in grades 9-12, focusing on robotics competition, community engagement, and documenting their process.
The team’s upcoming projects include a coat-drive and hosting programming classes and STEM showcases at local schools and libraries. They are currently running a magazine and book donation drive for a psychiatric ward.
