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Microsoft Corporation
Microsoft Corporation’s relationship with BGCA began in 1999 when it
funded, in collaboration with NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal, a $1.6
million pilot program to create technology centers at 15 Clubs
across the country. In 2000, through the generosity of Microsoft,
Club Tech was launched nationwide to reach some 4 million Club
members, and give them equal footing with their more affluent or
technically advanced counterparts.
Since the program’s inception, Boys & Girls Clubs have received more
than $90 million worth of Microsoft-donated software and more than
7,000 Club staff have participated in technology training. This
translates to better access to technology for Club members,
providing them more opportunities to succeed in school and in the
future workforce.
The Club Tech program has advanced computer skills for many of our
Club members. This is especially true at the
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holyoke, Mass. [Use
Media Player to view.]Among the many programs within the Club Tech family is the Digital
Arts Suite, a collection of five programs combining arts and
technology, designed to incorporate the best learning approaches in
a high-tech setting for kids in the areas of Web design; graphic
design and animation; digital photography and photo editing; digital
movies and digital music.
BGCA also launched
MyClubMyLife.com, an online community
that offers fun, entertaining, and above all safe, online content.
Some components of the site include: lessons on Internet safety;
access to Club Tech learning resources; activities, promotions and
games; links to other teen-related sites; and music, streaming video
and audio reports by Club reporters.
A major milestone was reached in 2007 with the opening of the 2,000th
in-Club technology center. Microsoft’s
generous software gift has helped BGCA deliver state-of-the art
technology to those who need it most.
By providing young people with better online and computing
resources, Boys & Girls Clubs can fill the gap for those without
adequate resources in schools and at home. Acquiring Club Tech
skills not only helps users navigate the World Wide Web, it enables
them to better navigate life.
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In a 2007 Harris Interactive survey, 51 percent of Club alumni say they achieved a higher level of education than they thought possible because of attending their Club.
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