The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast unveiled new tools and equipment at its technology-filled Innovation Lab thanks to a $20,000 grant from Cox Communications during a ceremony held at the Fort Walton Beach Club on September 28.
The Cox Innovation Labs are the cornerstone of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Club Tech program, which provides students access to curriculum to advance their computer literacy skills.
- These Innovation Labs also help bridge the digital divide for children without access to a computer or reliable internet connection at home.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generous support from Cox Communications,” said Shervin Rassa, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. “This $20,000 grant doesn’t just bring technology into our Fort Walton Beach Club; it opens new doors for the future leaders of our community. The Cox Innovation Lab is not just a space filled with gadgets; it’s a stepping stone that levels the playing field, ensuring that all our kids, regardless of their circumstances, have the chance to develop essential computer literacy skills and explore exciting STEM fields.”
The Cox Innovation Lab gives children enrolled in the Boys & Girls Clubs the freedom to explore their interest in STEM through new and innovative technology. The lab features laptop computers and Chromebooks, a video production suite, 3D printers, microscopes, drones, Wifi and internet services provided by Cox.
“We’re committed to supporting STEM opportunities for children so they can stay connected, live, learn and pursue careers in our increasingly digital world,” said David Deliman, Cox Gulf Coast market vice president. “Cox Innovation Labs allow students to access exciting tools to advance their tech-literacy skills and explore new possibilities.”
In addition to the Innovation Lab grant, Cox has made great strides in expanding broadband access along the Gulf Coast. Through community partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs, Connect2Compete (C2C) and other internet affordability options, Cox is moving the needle on bridging the digital divide for families and students across the U.S.
