CyberSummit - April 22-23, 2010

Narrowing the digital divide through access to computers is just one way Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston aims to assist young people from all backgrounds to develop into effective citizens and leaders. Computer literacy and technology proficiency are essential components of a young person’s future success, and technology program ensures that youth learn the skills necessary to survive in an increasingly technological world.

BGCB's annual CyberSummit is a two-day experience that aims to expose Club members to different technologies in a fun, social, and non-competitive way. CyberSummit offers hands-on workshops, team building opportunities, and technology challenges utilizing advanced professional software. Workshops can range from designing a video game and creating a robotics project to filming and editing an original video and creating original digital music.   Fun and social events, such as t-shirt design, poster making, and a pool party are integrated into the event.  The closing CyberFair affords the opportunity to view participants' finished projects. Invitations are extended to mentors, volunteers and friends of BGCB, MIT Media Lab, and the Intel Computer Clubhouse Network (ICCN) to participate as workshop presenters, tapping into the collective expertise that exists in our region. In addition, teens who have previously attended CyberSummit take on leadership roles by serving as support for presenters and as mentors for younger participants.

Each year, more than 50 teens participate. CyberSummit will convene for two days during April school vacation week — April 22-23, 2010 at the Yawkey Club of Roxbury. Funding provided for the second consecutive year by Microsoft.