Spectrum announced a $25,000 donation to a Far Rockaway-based workforce development organization on Tuesday, July 16.
The communication service company’s donation supports the Rockaway Development and Revitalization Corporation’s (RDRC) Spectrum Learning Lab at 19-20 Mott Ave. The funding will go towards new computer equipment and enrichment programs for children living in Far Rockaway.
The Spectrum Learning Lab within RDRC’s workforce development program gives residents access to computers with high-speed internet and computer and social media skill workshops. Students also use the lab for independent study, job applications, cover letter writing and web-based skills development courses.
The learning lab opened in 2013 and is one of 40 learning labs Spectrum established at nonprofit and community organizations across the city.
“We are extremely grateful for the continued support of Spectrum in creating technology-based access and learning opportunities for our youth and adult career seekers via our state-of-the-art Spectrum Learning Center,” said Kevin Alexander, executive director of RDRC, in a statement. Alexander added that the learning lab is vital in providing internet connectivity services to low-and moderate-income families living in Far Rockaway.
Camille Joseph-Goldman, group vice president of state government affairs at Spectrum, said in a statement that Spectrum will continue to support the local community through the initiative. “RDRC plays an instrumental role in the Far Rockaway community, and together with the resources we bring through RDRC’s impactful presence, we’ll provide more digital access and opportunity for all,” said Joseph-Goldman.
In 2023, Spectrum invested nearly a quarter-million-dollars in renovations and upgrades of 16 Spectrum Learning Labs, including RDRC.
Founded in 1978, RDRC’s mission is to revitalize the Rockaways by providing residents with job placement, training programs, youth and educational programs.
