Key Takeaways:  

• Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) and AT&T open new Connected Learning Center at the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club to provide digital resources for the community

• AT&T contributed an additional $50,000 to support the Center 

• AT&T distributed 250 laptops and backpacks to students and families served by BGCMA

AT&T opened a new Connected Learning Center inside the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club in Atlanta to provide internet access and high-quality educational tools to residents who encounter barriers to online participation. In addition, AT&T made a $50,000 contribution to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) for programming support. 

AT&T also distributed 250 free laptops and backpacks to students and families served by BGCMA as part of the event.

“As we work together to create a safer Atlanta, initiatives like the AT&T Connected Learning Center demonstrate the power of collaboration in achieving our shared goals for a safer city where our youth can thrive,” said Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum. “This collaboration with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta and AT&T plays a significant role in reducing youth crime by engaging youth in positive and productive activities that will open the door to new opportunities. We are grateful for AT&T's continued commitment to our community and its investment in the future of Atlanta youth."

“The AT&T Connected Learning at the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club is a vital resource for Atlanta youth, providing them with access to the latest technology, high-speed internet and essential digital resources,” said Donnie Beamer, Senior Technology Adviser, City of Atlanta. “In today’s technology-driven world, it is imperative that our young people are equipped with digital knowledge and skills. This Connected Learning Center is laying the groundwork for a brighter, more connected future for all of Atlanta’s youth and enabling them to pursue and excel in a digital world."

“The AT&T Connected Learning Center at the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club is a critical asset for our community, offering youth access to internet connectivity and technology,” said Atlanta City Councilmember Jason Winston, District 1. “This center will be instrumental in helping our youth stay connected and succeed academically. It’s a great step toward building a stronger, more connected community.”

This Connected Learning Center is the fourth in Atlanta and the sixth in Georgia. It offers free access to digital resources, including high-speed AT&T Fiber internet, Wi-Fi and Dell computers. It also provides educational resources such as The Achievery, a free digital learning platform by AT&T, and free digital literacy courses in partnership with the Public Library Association. Tutoring and mentoring are also provided by AT&T employees and community leaders. 

“At Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta, we create safe, inclusive, and engaging environments that help ignite the unlimited potential of kids and teens across Metro Atlanta. AT&T’s investment in the new AT&T Connected Learning Center at our Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club underscores our shared commitment to fostering an environment where our youth can explore, innovate, and develop their digital skills,” said David Jernigan, President and CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta.

AT&T launched this Connected Learning Center as part of the AT&T Connected Learning® initiative to address the digital divide through investments in internet accessibility, affordability and the safe adoption of technology. AT&T is committing $5 billion to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030.

AT&T opens these centers within local nonprofit organizations that are already adept at supporting underserved populations within their community, including some of our nation’s most vulnerable students and families. The company plans to offer more than 50 locations by mid-2024. 

As part of their commitment to digital inclusion, Dell Technologies has donated Dell OptiPlex computers with integrated audio and webcams. World Wide Technology, a leading minority supplier of IT services, is handling configuration and installation.

“At AT&T, we are committed to closing the digital divide and ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the digital connectivity they need to succeed in today’s world. We are proud to collaborate with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta to open a new AT&T Connected Learning Center at the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club,” said Venessa Harrison, President, AT&T Southeast Coastal States. “This Connected Learning Center is a dedicated safe space where Atlanta youth can access the online technology they need to thrive. By offering access to high-speed internet, technology devices and digital learning resources, we are empowering Atlanta youth and helping build bright futures.”  

Learn more at att.com/connectedlearning.