Rachel’s Reach: How We Extend Our Reach Beyond Our Team

Within MORT, supporting others is a vital aspect of who we are and what we aim to achieve. One of the most meaningful ways we follow through with this mission is with a program called Rachel’s Reach, inspired by our electrical mentor Rachel who passed away two years ago. Her impact continues to shape our team to this day..

Rachel’s Reach was founded in order to ensure that every team has a chance to participate during competition. Whether a robot breaks down mid-event or a team is missing an essential part or tool, our members are always ready to step up.

Throughout competitions, the members of our team make themselves available for robot repairs, programming issues, offering spare parts, or even just guidance. Although the idea seems simple, it deeply reflects the foundational values of FIRST: teamwork, inclusion, and Gracious Professionalism. 

This season, Rachel’s Reach made an astounding impact on teams in need. Working together with FRC Team 9439, Knights of Polaris, we were able to effectively wire their swerve drive, allowing them to have a functional robot. We also assisted a team in the creation of their bumpers, helping them meet competition prerequisites. 

Rachel’s Reach is never just about repairing robots, but rather forming deeply rooted connections. Through Rachel’s initiative, we’ve formed close relationships with teams across the entire FIRST community. Whether assisting a rookie team with their first ever issue or helping an experienced team make its way back onto the field, the interactions MORT members make contribute to a more supportive environment. 

Above all, Rachel’s Reach continues a legacy. It serves as a reminder that success within the FIRST Robotics Competition is not just measured by the performance of teams on the field, but how we support those around us. 

As MORT continues to grow, we remain deeply committed to expanding this program, ensuring that every team we come in contact with has the opportunity to succeed.