Comcast has announced its support for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Illinois and the Springfield Urban League (SUL) through $10,000 grants aimed at enhancing digital skills training. The Boys & Girls Club will allocate funds to bolster the Career Launch Program, which equips teenagers with digital and workforce development training, preparing them for future employment. The Urban League will utilize the grant to enhance its STEAM robotics program.
Tiffany Mathis, CEO & Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club, says she's proud of partnering with Comcast to foster digital equity, highlighting the pivotal role of broadband access and digital skills in facilitating academic and career success. Marcus Johnson, President & CEO of the Urban League, echoed the sentiment, underscoring the transformative impact of technology and education, while praising Comcast's commitment.
Comcast's grants are a facet of Project UP, a 10-year, $1 billion endeavor promoting digital equity. A key component, Internet Essentials, has already connected 1.9 million Illinois residents since its 2011 launch, bridging the digital divide for low-income households. Carl Jones, Jr., Comcast’s Regional VP of Government and External Affairs, also highlighted the Affordable Connectivity Program, an additional federal initiative providing financial assistance for Internet and mobile services.