Starting in January, two RecTech Community Technology Centers (CTCs) in the Rainier Valley will increase the activities of the TechNet Program that began this year. TechNet provides academic support and technology skill building opportunities to youth after school Monday - Thursday. Students participate in a wide range of program opportunities, from Digital Photography to Web Design, from online tutoring to resume writing.
"The staff and volunteers of the RecTech Coalition do great work," commented Ken Bounds, Superintendent of Seattle Parks and Recreation. "Their programs are critical to the ability of our community centers to continue to be the 'hearts of our communities' and to provide relevant and important services to our young people."
"The programs we offer give youth opportunities for self-empowerment, valuable life and employment skills, and access to critical digital resources," said Young Pham, Lab Coordinator at Rainier Beach Community Center. "By reaching teens in their neighborhood, we bring learning to them at a place close to home."
ARC has partnered with Seattle Public Schools' Community Learning Centers, operated by Seattle Parks and Recreation and YMCA of Greater Seattle, and a variety of other community-based organizations to implement this innovative program.
Additional support will help fund programs essential to bridging the digital divide, including those that offer technology access and courses for low-income residents, after school technology programs that serve all grades, and workforce development programs for youth and community members.
RecTech Community Technology Center's mission is to provide programs that effectively utilize technology for education, recreation and community services for children, youth, adults, and neighborhoods.
