Holyoke YMCA, Comcast partner to bridge student digital divide
HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – The Greater Holyoke YMCA has opened a STEAM tech center, providing access to devices, digital literacy training, coding, digital arts, and online safety.
The center was made possible through a $15,000 grant from Comcast, which is part of its Project UP initiative to connect people to the Internet and create digital opportunities. A grand opening celebration was held on April 2 with Massachusetts State Rep. Patricia Duffy and representatives from the Greater Holyoke YMCA and Comcast.
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YMCA programs serve more than 500 youth each year and will incorporate educational technology platforms such as ST Math, Cricut design, and e‑gaming, with an emphasis on healthy screen habits and teamwork.
Greater Holyoke YMCA and Comcast partner to expand digital opportunity in Holyoke (Photo courtesy: Comcast)
“Comcast has been an incredibly generous and dedicated partner of the Greater Holyoke YMCA, and their continued support has been instrumental in helping us open the tech center,” said Conor Bevan, Chief Executive Officer of Greater Holyoke YMCA.
“Comcast is proud of its longstanding commitment to Holyoke and the relationships we’ve built with local organizations like Greater Holyoke YMCA, which are opening doors to transformative digital skills building and workforce development opportunities,” said Carolyne Hannan, Senior Vice President of Comcast’s New England Region. “We recognize the critical role that the Internet plays in achieving economic mobility and personal growth, which is why we’re investing in partnerships that empower residents to shape their own futures.”
Complimentary high-capacity WiFi is available throughout its community center as part of Comcast Lift Zone.
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