Strength Solutions has been awarded a $100,000 grant from Generator Z to provide scholarships for TECH Unleashed, an after-school teen technology program through Boundless Connections.
TECH Unleashed, available at the Boundless Connections technology centers in Olean and Rochester, N.Y., is for youth 13-17 years old interested in computer programming, 3D printing, augmented and virtual reality, graphic art, and video/audio editing.
Participants receive guidance on project and time management, leadership and team building, public speaking, research and industry networking.
Strength Solutions will distribute the funds, with $30,000 earmarked for the Olean pilot tech center’s program, and $70,000 earmarked for the Rochester flagship tech center’s program. Strength Solutions will provide full and partial scholarships to any members in need.
“Strength Solutions is committed to helping people build a stronger community by developing and using their own unique character strengths,” Mike Marvin, Strength Solutions executive director said. “The character component of TECH Unleashed makes it unique in the tech field.
“When we developed this program with Boundless Connections, including a focus on inclusivity, respect and acknowledging the strengths of others was a key to its success,” Mr. Marvin added. “Of course the teens love the tech in the program, but they also enjoy that they can have a space to be themselves.”
Launched in 2020, Generator Z is a teen-led initiative to reimagine the future of afterschool. More than 1,000 ‘Generators’ from across Southeast Michigan and Western New York shared their afterschool experience and insight online. Afterschool providers stepped up with ideas to turn that teen insight into action. Over 90 providers across both regions received $4 million to bring their ideas to life in the next year and TECH Unleashed is one of them.
Generator Z is driven by teens and powered by Lakeshore Connections with support from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. Learn more at www.generator-z.org.
To sign up for TECH Unleashed, visit boundlessconnections.com/tech-unleashed. Members will meet 3:30-5:30 Thursdays on days schools are in session.
Along with scholarships and funding resources, Strength Solutions provides strength-based solutions training, including acknowledging strengths and working on growth, setting clear boundaries, using restorative justice for conflict resolution and healthy relationships, and developing coaching skills to help others focus on strengths.
For more information on Strength Solutions visit www.strengthsolutions.org, email info@strengthsolutions.org.