Empowering Atlanta Youth with Technology
Today in Atlanta, an inspiring event took place as AT&T partnered with local organization 1MO? to distribute 100 refurbished laptops along with backpacks filled to the brim with school supplies. This generous initiative is part of a larger goal by AT&T aimed at bridging the digital divide and providing essential resources to youth across the country. The plan? To equip a whopping 20,000 students with these invaluable tools before they head back to school.
Gearing Up for Success
The lucky students not only received laptops, but also backpacks stuffed with all the necessary school supplies: notebooks, pencils, and even headphones. But that’s not all—each backpack also contained heartfelt cards filled with words of encouragement written by AT&T employees. These little notes add a personal touch that can mean the world to a young person starting out on their educational journey.
Dr. Travis Barber, the Founder and CEO of 1MO?, expressed his excitement about the day’s distribution, stating, “At 1MO?, our mission is to inspire, educate and empower at-risk youth by leading them to make positive life choices that enable them to reach their personal potential.” He continued, “These laptops will play a critical role in helping our students complete homework assignments, develop new skills, and explore their passions.”
A Partnership for Progress
Atlanta City Councilmember Jason Dozier added his voice to the conversation, saying, “As we continue to work toward creating a more connected, thriving Atlanta, partners like AT&T are helping us achieve that mission.” He emphasized the importance of providing essential access to technology, highlighting how it can create pathways to success for Atlanta’s youth.
This initiative is not just a one-time effort; it falls under AT&T’s broader Connected Learning® initiative aimed at addressing the digital divide, focusing on making internet connectivity accessible, affordable, and safe. In fact, AT&T has committed a staggering $5 billion towards helping 25 million people gain and maintain access to high-speed internet by the year 2030.
The Importance of Technology
Riley Blount, Vice President of External Affairs for AT&T in Georgia, summarized the company’s dedication by stating, “Technology is a gateway to equity of opportunity.” He reiterated that they are proud to collaborate with 1MO? to remove barriers and empower Atlanta’s youth to chase their dreams.
This event today shines a light on a critical issue that affects many communities. By providing these resources, AT&T and 1MO? are not just handing out laptops and supplies; they are opening doors to opportunities and paving the way for a brighter future for young people in Atlanta.
Looking Ahead
As this engaging distribution wraps up, one can’t help but feel hopeful for the future. The smiles on the faces of the recipients and the supportive environment created by AT&T and 1MO? remind us that sometimes, a little help can go a long way. The initiative is a beautiful illustration of community support in action, showing how collaborative efforts can make a real difference in the lives of today’s youth.
For the students who received laptops and supplies today, the world just became a little bit more accessible. With technology in hand and encouragement in heart, there’s no telling what these young minds will achieve. Here’s to empowering the next generation!
