Inside the new HUB for Community Innovation, AT&T launched two new Connected Learning Centers with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta and RISE Augusta to provide internet access and education tools to those who face connectivity barriers holding them back from success in the digital world.
“Digital connectivity is essential to providing equity of opportunity, and the AT&T Connected Learning Center is a transformative step in creating better outcomes for our youth and the community as a whole. The AT&T Connected Learning Center housed at the Boys & Girls Club is a great example of community collaboration that will help us accomplish our mission of building great futures for our youth.”
Kim Evans – President and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta
This initiative is part of our $2 billion commitment from 2021 to 2023 to address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. In addition, AT&T has made a $50,000 contribution towards both RISE Augusta and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Augusta.
The goal of the centers is to connect more people through free access to the internet and education resources that teach the value of broadband and how to use it safely and effectively.
“At RISE Augusta, we believe in the potential of all children to rise above adversity, stay in school, and achieve in life. With the AT&T Connected Learning Center, we have a dedicated space where our youth can access free internet connectivity, educational resources and develop essential job skills. Through this collaboration with AT&T, our youth now have resources they need to achieve their fullest potential in school and in life.”
Laurie Cook – Executive Director, RISE Augusta
Learn more about the impact of the new AT&T Connected Learning Centers the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta and RISE Augusta in the video below.
The launch of these Connected Learning Centers falls within AT&T’s month-long “Bridge to Possibility: Closing the digital divide, together” campaign. The campaign aims to drive awareness of the challenges caused by the digital divide and the collective response needed to address it. Bridging the digital divide requires businesses, nonprofits and government to come together for a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring high-quality connectivity to millions of people that need it most.
“Connectivity is the foundation of a thriving community, and AT&T’s investment in the Connected Learning Centers at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta and RISE Augusta directly reflect our commitment to help bridge the digital divide and make an impact in the communities we serve. Through the Connected Learning Centers, we are equipping Augusta youth with digital tools they need to succeed today and tomorrow.”
Venessa Harrison – President, AT&T Southeast Coastal States
Located at the HUB for Community Innovation, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta and RISE Augusta share a common goal of supporting the development of Augusta youth and families by providing the tools, educational resources, and instruction they need to have a successful future.
The addition of the two Connected Learning Centers expands the organizations’ reach by providing youth, families, and community members with access to computers, internet connectivity and digital resources.
“In today’s world, having access to innovative technology and digital resources is important in how students develop as learners. The AT&T Connected Learning Center will provide Augusta youth and adults with enhanced literary experiences and instruction that will set them on a path to life-long learning.”
Dr. Betsy VanDeusen – Director, Augusta University Literacy Center
