Grand Opening of Best Buy Teen Tech Center at Southside Boys and Girls Club in St. Cloud: Member Testimonials Highlight Event
The Best Buy Teen Tech Center at the Southside Boys and Girls Club in St. Cloud is making a significant impact on the youth in the area. At a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony, member testimonials highlighted how the center is providing valuable opportunities for young people to develop important life skills and explore potential career paths.
One member, Brooklyn Hughes, shared her experience with the trucking simulator at the center, explaining how it not only offers a fun gaming experience but also teaches valuable life skills such as financial management, time management, and adhering to rules and regulations. This sentiment was echoed by President and CEO Mary Swingle, who emphasized the focus on developing life and workforce readiness skills with all youth who participate in the programming at the site.
The hub is managed by Coordinator Shaelynn Waseka, who emphasizes the importance of providing a space where teens can explore their interests at their own pace. The center offers a variety of stations, from music recording to graphic design, allowing students to experiment and discover their passions. Waseka highlighted a story of a child who initially found photography boring but later considered a career in it after falling in love with the hobby at the center.
The addition of the Best Buy Teen Tech Center has opened up opportunities for volunteers to mentor and share their expertise in various tech-related areas. Senior Site Manager Dominique Hollomon shared how her experience at the company’s headquarters has opened her up to trying new programs at the club, such as esports, which is being considered as a way to continue the momentum at area locations.
The impact of the Best Buy Teen Tech Center is clearly visible, as staff and students alike are inspired to explore new possibilities and push beyond their comfort zones. The center has sparked interest in expanding capabilities to other locations, even if financial constraints may limit immediate expansion.
Overall, the Best Buy Teen Tech Center is not just a place for teens to have fun and play games – it’s a space where they can learn, grow, and develop important skills that will benefit them in their future careers. It’s a testament to the power of technology and education in shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators.
