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Computers for Youth’s mission is to improve the educational prospects of low-income students by providing them and their families with home computers and the skills to use them. Computers for Youth currently works with low-income public middle schools in New York City, providing the entire school community—students, parents, and teachers—with home computers, training, and technical support. By using technology as a catalyst, Computers for Youth helps students to become more engaged in their own learning and thereby succeed in school and as life-long learners.
In 2003, Computers for Youth provided 1,325 home computers and trained 2,600 students and parents. With an annual budget of $1.2 million and nine full-time staff, Computers for Youth is currently working in eight schools in New York City, and is poised to expand significantly next year, if it can leverage Department of Education funding. Computers for Youth is piloting two new programs to deepen its impact: a teacher training program that focuses on approaches to integrating technology into schoolwork, and an after school program for students to plan technology-related events in their schools. Recognized by the Tech Museum of Innovation for applying technology to profoundly improve the human condition, Computers for Youth’s unique model has the potential to transform the system of learning for low-income children.
- 75% of Computers for Youth students say they put more effort into their education as a result of having a CFY computer.
- 71% of parents say that they use their home computer to help their children with their homework.
- 57% of teachers report improvements in their students’ research skills and collaboration with their peers.
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Total Funding from New Profit to Date: $289,000
Value of Total Consulting Resources from New Profit (Monitor Group and other) to Date: $127,000
Other Strategic Partners: Goldman Sachs, Societe Generale, Blessing Way Foundation
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