MANCHESTER – Local students from the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester showcased the club’s new Teen Tech Lab – a center for hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning – at a recent event attended by Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig and representatives from AT&T, the initiative’s major funder.

“I’m thankful for the AT&T Foundation’s investment in the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester. For over 110 years, the Boys & Girls Club has been a safe haven for youth in our community,” Craig said. “They’re a true asset to our city and with this generous gift from AT&T, they can continue to be a place for our youth to grow, learn and thrive.”

Now open for use, the Teen Tech Lab combines the resources of STEM and teen programs to deliver age-appropriate education and support for students in grades sixth through 12. Along with offering hands-on STEM learning opportunities, the Teen Tech Lab provides a place for kids to do homework and receive academic support and tutoring.

The AT&T Foundation provided $14,500 to help furnish the lab, with funds supporting staffing costs and the purchase of interactive white boards, printers, hard drives, sound equipment and furniture.

“Every student deserves an opportunity to make their dreams a reality. At AT&T, we are proud to support initiatives like the Teen Tech Lab that are helping to do just that. This space will provide local kids with valuable real-world STEM experiences in a fun, creative, safe and supportive atmosphere,” said Owen Smith, president, AT&T New Hampshire. “Diane and her staff are making a real difference in the lives of these students, helping to bring STEM learning opportunities and close the digital divide. We’re grateful for their efforts and excited to see what the kids come up with in the Lab.”

“We are incredibly grateful to the AT&T Foundation for allowing our teens and tweens access to an advanced world of technology,” said Diane Fitzpatrick, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester. “The tools we have acquired empower our members to explore the art and science of technology with more sophistication-which will further their success in our digital society.”

For more information about the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester, visit www.mbgcnh.org.