Categories: Business NewsNews

Atlanta Opens New Digital Learning Center to Bridge the Digital Divide for Local Youth

Atlanta’s Youth Empowered with New Digital Learning Center

Atlanta, Georgia – In an exciting development for the local community, the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club has recently opened its doors to a new Connected Learning Center, courtesy of a partnership between the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) and AT&T. This center is designed to provide vital digital resources to residents who often face barriers to online participation, making it a beacon of hope for many families in the area.

A Boost of $50,000 for Local Programming

To further support this initiative, AT&T made a generous contribution of $50,000, aimed at enhancing various programs available at BGCMA. During the center’s launch event, AT&T also distributed 250 laptops and backpacks to students and families, ensuring they have the tools needed to participate in today’s digital world.

A Community Collaboration

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “As we work together to create a safer Atlanta, initiatives like the AT&T Connected Learning Center demonstrate the power of collaboration in achieving our shared goals for a safer city where our youth can thrive.” This center is seen as a vital part of the effort to reduce youth crime by engaging young people in positive activities that can lead them to promising futures.

Empowering Atlanta’s Future

Donnie Beamer, Senior Technology Adviser for the City of Atlanta, highlighted the significance of providing youth with access to modern technology and high-speed internet. According to Beamer, “In today’s technology-driven world, it is imperative that our young people are equipped with digital knowledge and skills.” The center is a stepping stone toward building a brighter, more connected future for Atlanta’s youth.

A Step Toward Digital Inclusivity

This new center is one of only a few in the state and represents the fourth Connected Learning Center opened in Atlanta. With free access to high-speed AT&T Fiber internet, Wi-Fi, and Dell computers, the center is equipped to provide essential educational resources. For instance, kids can benefit from The Achievery, a free digital learning platform offered by AT&T, and participate in free digital literacy courses in partnership with the Public Library Association.

Community Engagement and Tutoring

The involvement doesn’t stop there! Tutoring and mentoring services are being provided by AT&T employees and local community leaders, fostering a genuine support network for the kids. David Jernigan, President and CEO of BGCMA, expressed pride in the collaboration, noting that the center will “ignite the unlimited potential of kids and teens across Metro Atlanta.”

Addressing the Digital Divide

This initiative is part of AT&T’s broader commitment to helping communities bridge the digital divide. The company plans to invest a staggering $5 billion to help ensure that 25 million people gain access to high-speed internet by 2030. By opening these centers in partnership with local nonprofits, AT&T is targeting underserved populations, aiming to provide resources to some of the most vulnerable students and families in the community.

Looking Ahead

With plans to open over 50 locations by mid-2024, AT&T’s initiative signifies a long-term commitment to digital inclusion. By collaborating with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs, AT&T hopes to create more safe spaces where youth can thrive in our rapidly changing world.

In Conclusion

The launch of the AT&T Connected Learning Center at the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club is a heartwarming advancement for the Atlanta community. It not only addresses immediate educational needs but also lays the groundwork for the city’s youth to navigate and succeed in the digital age. Together, community members and organizations are working to ensure that brighter futures are within reach for all.


Author: HERE Atlanta

HERE Atlanta

Share
Published by
HERE Atlanta

Recent Posts

Tragic Incident at Atlanta Construction Site Claims Young Life

Tragic Incident at Atlanta Construction Site Claims Young Life ATLANTA — A heartbreaking event unfolded…

20 hours ago

New York City Experiences Major Shift in NYPD Leadership Amid Misconduct Allegations

New York City Sees Shocking Leadership Change in NYPD In a move that has sent…

21 hours ago

Big Changes on the Horizon for Federal Death Row Inmates as Biden Weighs Commutations

Philadelphia, PA - Big Changes on the Horizon for Federal Death Row Inmates Exciting yet…

21 hours ago

Exciting Changes in Florida Politics as Lara Trump Withdraws from Senate Race

Exciting Changes in Florida Politics: Lara Trump Withdraws from Senate Consideration In a surprising turn…

21 hours ago

Georgia Family Demands Answers Following Death of 15-Year-Old Daughter Amid Emergency Response Controversy

Georgia Family Seeks Answers After Tragic Death of Teen Daughter In the heart of College…

22 hours ago

Big Changes Coming to Georgia State University Thanks to Record $80 Million Donation

Big Changes Coming to Georgia State University Thanks to Record Donation Atlanta is buzzing with…

22 hours ago