AT&T Opens Connected Learning Center SM at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City, Thornberry Unit to Help Bridge the Digital Divide

New dedicated learning center will provide access to high-speed internet, Dell computers and digital learning resources for the community  

Kansas City, MO, September 10, 2025

Key Takeaways:  

·         Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City and AT&T open new Connected Learning Center to provide digital resources for the community

·         AT&T contributed an additional $50,000 to support the center

·         This is one of 25 non-profits awarded CLCs by AT&T in 2025

·         AT&T, Human I-T team up to provide 125 laptops to students

AT&T opened a new Connected Learning Center inside the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City Thornberry Unit in Kansas City to provide internet access and high-quality educational tools to residents who encounter barriers to online participation. In addition, AT&T made a $50,000 contribution to BGC of Greater Kansas City for programming support.  And, the company teamed up with Human I-T to provide 125 refurbished laptops to students who participate in programs at the club.

“Creating opportunity for all Kansas Citians has been central to our work from day one,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas.  “AT&T's Connected Learning Center, combined with these laptops, gives our students the tools they need to thrive. Partnerships like this show the power of public and private sectors working together for our children's success.”

According to U.S. Census Bureau data, millions nationwide still don’t have access to the internet or connected devices needed to fully participate in the online world, an issue known as the digital divide.  

“The opening of this Connected Learning Center is a game-changer for the young people and families we serve,” said Jason Roth, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City. “By providing access to high-speed internet, devices, and digital learning resources, AT&T is helping us level the playing field for kids who might otherwise be left behind. And with an additional $50,000 contribution to support Club programming, this partnership strengthens our ability to provide critical enrichment and academic support that complement what students receive in school, building pathways to college, careers, and lifelong success. Together, we’re not just bridging the digital divide—we’re opening doors to brighter futures.”

This Connected Learning Center is the third in Missouri. It offers free access to digital resources, including high-speed AT&T Fiber internet, Wi-Fi and Dell computers. It also provides educational resources such as The Achievery^SM, a free digital learning platform by AT&T, and free digital literacy courses in partnership with the Public Library Association. Tutoring and mentoring are also provided by AT&T employees and community leaders.

 As part of their commitment to digital inclusion, Dell Technologies has donated Dell OptiPlex computers with integrated audio and webcams. World Wide Technology, a leading minority supplier of IT services, is handling configuration and installation. 

“Our investment in the Connected Learning Center at the Thornberry Unit is another example our commitment to get more Americans connected and make an impact in the communities we serve,” said Craig Unruh, president, AT&T Missouri. “The center will give students access to free internet connectivity and educational resources to help them succeed in school and on the job.  And, the laptops are another tool to help them connect to greater possibility.” 

“Every kid deserves a place where they feel safe, supported, and inspired, and that’s exactly what the Boys & Girls Club offers. By bringing technology into that space, we’re not just closing a gap, we’re opening up a world of possibility. I’m proud to stand with AT&T and the Thornberry Unit to help make sure more young people in Kansas City can learn, grow, and build memories that last a lifetime,” said Gabe Middleton, CEO & Co-Founder of Human-I-T.

This effort is part of AT&T’s initiative  to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. AT&T is committing $5 billion to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030.

AT&T opens these centers within local nonprofit organizations that are already adept at supporting underserved populations within their community, including some of our nation’s most vulnerable students and families. The company plans to open at least 100 CLCs by the end of 2027.

Learn more at att.com. And, learn more about AT&T’s other investments in Missouri at www.attconnects/missouri.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City

For more than 110 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City has been dedicated to transforming the lives of children and teens in the Greater Kansas City area. Our goal is clear - to inspire and enable all youth, particularly those who need us most, to achieve their full potential as responsible, productive, and caring citizens. Through impactful programs in education, character development, leadership, and healthy lifestyles, we provide a safe and supportive environment where young people can thrive and put their dreams of a Great Future within reach. Learn more at helpkckids.org.

About Human I-T

Human-I-T is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the digital divide by refurbishing donated technology and providing it to individuals and organizations in need. Through its efforts, Human-I-T diverts e-waste from landfills and creates opportunities for underserved communities to thrive in the digital age.

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T

At AT&T, our corporate responsibility work is dedicated to bridging the digital divide across the country. We are committed to providing people of all ages and from every community with the essential resources they need to thrive in the digital era. For generations, we have supported programs that impact millions of individuals nationwide, and since 2021, we have committed $5 billion to initiatives that enhance connectivity, promote digital literacy, and improve access to high-speed internet. Our efforts particularly focus on uplifting underserved communities, including students, older adults, and those on tribal lands, ensuring everyone can participate in the digital world and benefit from its opportunities.

For more information, contact:        

Ben Russell

AT&T Corporate Communications

Phone: 972-209-8867

Email: ben.russell@att.com

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