AT&T and Human-I-T Empower Youth with 150 New Laptops at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias members and staff posed with AT&T representatives for a group photo.
Visalia, CA - August 21, 2024 - In a powerful demonstration of community support and corporate partnership, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias (BGCS) joined forces with AT&T to distribute 150 laptops (Donated by Human-I-T) to youth across Tulare and Kings Counties. The event, held at the Visalia-Gindick Boys & Girls Club, was a significant step forward in providing young people with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
Members arrived from different Clubs in the community, excited for the opportunity to learn how these laptops could be powerful tools for their personal and professional development. The day began with a talk designed to inspire and educate, highlighting the importance of working hard, setting goals, and daring to follow one's dreams. The message was clear: with the right resources and guidance, anything is possible.
AT&T staff ready to pass out laptops.
BGCS members line up to receive brand new laptops.
Following the presentation, AT&T staff joined in the spirit of giving, personally handing out the laptops to each member. The excitement was contagious as the youth received not just laptops but also backpacks generously donated by Health Net, ready to head back into the new school year.
Members gather around a table full of stickers used to customize their laptops.
A unique feature of the event was the sticker bar, where members could personalize their new laptops with fun, creative stickers. This added a personal touch, making each device a true reflection of its new owner’s personality.
Our Little Pizza Place owner, Carri Chambers-Plett, cooking pizzas for the event.
Carri Chambers-Plett, a former BGCS staff member and now a successful entrepreneur with Our Little Pizza Place, catered a delicious lunch and shared her inspiring story with the members. She spoke about her journey from club staff to business owner, emphasizing the importance of having a solid foundation, mentorship and support, and setting goals to achieve one's dreams. Her message reinforced the day’s theme that no dream is too small when backed by passion and preparation.
BGCS is committed to offering programs at every club that focus on both personal and professional development. These laptops will become vital tools in their ongoing efforts to help teens apply for jobs, connect with mentors, build life skills, and explore their passions. As part of their career launch programs, members will also receive training in digital safety, resume building, job applications, volunteer experience, and guidance, ensuring they are well-equipped for life after The Club.
Members open their new laptop boxes in excitement.
Farmersville BGC members show off their new laptops and stickers.
The event was a great success, bringing together members from all BGCS Clubs for a day of learning, empowerment, and community. “On behalf of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias, we appreciate the opportunity that AT&T and Human-I-T are providing our youth and families. It is great how this partnership helps in bridging the digital divide,” said Leticia Betancourt, Director of Operations, Boys & Girls Club of the Sequoias. Through this collaboration we are empowering youth in Tulare County with greater possibilities and help open the path of knowledge and empower young minds.”
BGCS extends a heartfelt thank you to AT&T, Human-I-T, Health Net, and Our Little Pizza Place for making this day possible and for their unwavering support of the Club’s mission.
Follow the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias on Facebook and Instagram @bgcsequoias in order to stay updated and see coverage of this event. Interested in having your child attend the Boys & Girls Club? Find a Club near you at bgcsequoias.org/ourclubs and get registered at bgcsequoias.org/registration.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias is focused on helping all young people, especially those who need us most, become responsible, caring and productive members of society. Boys & Girls Clubs were established in Tulare County in the 1990’s when Exeter and Visalia community leaders responded to the need for a positive place for local youth to spend free time after school. Today, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias provides services at 8 Clubs throughout Tulare County. Clubs provide a wide span of activities for local youth, varying from STEM to sports. www.bgcsequoias.org
About Human-I-T
The Human-I-T mission is to ensure everyone, regardless of socio-economic status, can access the tools they need to succeed in the digital age. By refurbishing donated technology and offering low-cost internet access, Human-I-T promotes digital inclusion and environmental sustainability through partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits. Human-I-T has positively impacted thousands of lives, fostering education, employment, and community growth.
About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T
AT&T is committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and improving lives. As part of their company wide commitment to address the digital divide, they launched AT&T Connected Learning® to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy, and education solutions to help today’s learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008 they’ve committed to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states, Washington D.C. and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.