Microsoft Corporation

i'm is a new initiative from Windows Live™ Messenger -- When you use i'm, Microsoft donates a portion of the program's advertising revenue to some of the world's most effective nonprofit organizations, including Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Learn more.

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 4.6 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 $74 million worth of Microsoft-donated software and more than 6,000 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.

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 YNet, www.bgcayouthnet.org 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 YNet 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.

Click here for a review of the program by the SMARTlab Centre or visit Microsoft to learn more about ClubTech. 

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