Empowering Futures: Cox Innovation Lab Opens Doors for Sand Springs Youth
In a moment of immense joy and gratitude, The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Tulsa celebrated the unveiling of a cutting-edge Cox Innovation Lab at its Sand Springs Club. This groundbreaking initiative was made possible by a generous $20,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. The lab's grand opening ceremony, held yesterday, marked a significant milestone for the community and its eager young learners.
The James M. Cox Foundation's donation is part of a larger $150,000 gift aimed at creating Cox Innovation Labs across the nation, enhancing STEM programming, and providing vital training for Boys & Girls Club staff throughout the year. The Cox Innovation Labs play a pivotal role in the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Club Tech program, offering students access to essential curriculum to advance their computer literacy skills. Moreover, these labs help bridge the digital divide for children who lack access to a computer or internet connection at home.
"We're profoundly grateful for the exceptional generosity of the James M. Cox Foundation as we introduce the Cox Innovation Lab in Sand Springs. This lab is more than just technology; it's a heartfelt opportunity for our children to grow," expressed Boys & Girls Club Area Director, Jake Law. "Through this lab, we're equipping them with the tools to explore STEM and opening doors to a world of possibilities."
The Cox Innovation Lab empowers children enrolled in the Boys & Girls Clubs to explore their interests in STEM through state-of-the-art technology. The lab is equipped with an array of resources, including laptop computers, Chromebooks, a video production suite, 3D printers, microscopes, drones, and WiFi and internet services provided by Cox.
"We're committed to ensuring our children have internet access and the tools they need to succeed at school, home, and now, thanks to the generosity of the James M. Cox Foundation, right here at the Sand Springs Boys & Girls Clubs where so many children spend their afternoons after the bell rings," shared Cox Tulsa Market Vice President, Roger Ramseyer. "We're excited about the positive impact and achievements these bright kids will make."
In addition to the Innovation Lab grant, Cox has been actively involved in expanding broadband access in Tulsa. Through community partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs and initiatives like Connect2Compete (C2C), Cox is working tirelessly to bridge the digital divide for families and students across the U.S.
The grand unveiling event was nothing short of spectacular. It was filled with infectious energy and excitement as Roger Ramseyer engaged with the children, encouraging them to dream bigger dreams than even he did as a child. The lab came alive with the laughter and exploration of the kids, immersing themselves in the world of robotics, Meta Quest headsets, video games, and much more.
The Cox Innovation Lab stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for these young minds, inspiring them to reach for the stars and unlock their true potential. With the support of generous benefactors like the James M. Cox Foundation and the unwavering dedication of community partners, the future is looking brighter than ever for the youth of Sand Springs.