Boys & Girls Club Opens Tech Center

Boys & Girls Clubs of Manhattan recently opened a state-of-the-art wireless technology center at it’s Northview Unit, leading Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s (B&GCA) Movement to create digital opportunities for its more than 3.5 million youth, as well as Club professionals.

The facility is one of thousands to be established in Clubs nationwide as a result of B&GCA’s Operation Connect program. This program is B&GCA’s strategic, technology initiative designed with the goal of ensuring that Club members and professionals not only have access to technology, but are computer and Internet literate as well. Funding for the center was made possible through a grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance.

"We are very excited about our new technology center and what it will mean to the children we serve, as well as to the community at large, " said Barb Allen, Executive Director. "Access to technology and the skills to use it are essential to creating a level educational ‘playing field’ for our members."

Equipped with ten IBM computers, a new HP LaserJet printer, a router and wireless access point, a PCI Wireless Network adapter for each computer, and Microsoft Educational software; the center will give members at the Northview Unit the chance to explore such programs as Creative Writer, Magic School Bus and the Encarta Reference Suite. One program, Club Tech, sponsored by Microsoft, will not only provide Club members with access to technology, but also outfit Club professionals with the resources needed to incorporate technology into every aspect of the Club’s management. The center also has high-speed Internet access provided by USD 383 through T1 Viewpoint Technologies.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manhattan provide positive programs for youth ages 6 - 18 that build self-esteem, instill confidence, and shape character. Annually, over 1,000 youth in the Manhattan area benefit from the Club’s services. With the PowerUp Technology Center at the Fourth Street Unit and this brand new Operation Connect wireless Technology Center at the Northview Unit, Club members will have the opportunity to explore the Internet and enjoy educational computer programs on a daily basis. For more information about the Boys & Girls Club, please call 539-1947.