BELLA VISTA -- A new technology center, funded by a grant from Cox Communications and The James M. Cox Foundation, officially opens Thursday, Oct. 29, at The Boys & Girls Club of Benton County, Bella Vista location. The $13,000 grant is part of a $135,000 gift that Cox Communications and The James M. Cox Foundation provided to create seven new Cox Technology Centers nationwide.
The technology centers are the centerpiece of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Club Tech program, which provides students access to curriculum to advance their computer literacy skills. These technology centers also help bridge the digital divide for children who have no access to a computer or Internet connection at home.
"Cox is dedicated to providing Arkansas youth access to technology and best practices for staying safe online," said Curt Stamp, Cox Communications Arkansas market vice president.
"At the Clubs, members have opportunities to actively develop 21st century skills," said Josh Johnson, unit director of the Bella Vista Boys & Girls Club of Benton County. "Research shows that youth who have access to science, technology, engineering, entrepreneurship and math projects are more likely to be prepared for secondary and post-secondary education and are more likely to be successful in future careers. Youth participation in art and reading encourages curiosity and creativity along with technical skills. Boys & Girls Clubs provide a safe environment for kids to try on new skills, to ask 'what if questions,' and to explore the possibilities."
The Bella Vista Boys & Girls Club Technology Center includes state-of-the-art computers, along with desktops, monitors, tablets, 3D-printer, docking stations, wireless routers, wireless cards and proprietary Microsoft and Club Tech software. Through the Club Tech suite of programs, children learn the basics of business software, plus stay safe online and move on to advanced hardware and networking skills.
Cox Communications and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America have partnered for more than 10 years to provide club kids with a safe place to learn and grow.
The Bella Vista Technology Center is located at the Bella Vista Unit (2260 Forrest Hills Blvd, Bella Vista). The Bella Vista Unit serves more than 135 children daily, and approximately 300 children participate in programming annually.
General News on 10/21/2015