Newly Equipped Computer Lab Opens at Van Dyke Community Center
On October 15, Van Dyke Houses residents and youth in Brooklyn welcomed the donation of new computers, Chromebooks, printers, and furniture for a dedicated space at their local community center.
Community members, led by Resident Association President Lisa Kenner, gathered with representatives from NYCHA, the Public Housing Community Fund (PHCF), the nonprofit CAMBA, and Amazon for a ribbon-cutting celebration to officially open the fully equipped computer lab.
The redesigned community space, spearheaded by the PHCF, was supported with a $10,000 donation from Amazon, helping to provide local residents and youth with access to technology for school, job searches, workforce training, telehealth, and civic engagement. The lab has been equipped with 10 desktop computers, 10 Chromebooks, and a printer, along with new desks and chairs. NYCHA staff assisted in the redesign work, including by painting the room. Two additional computers and a printer were installed for the resident association office.
Expressing gratitude to those involved, Ms. Kenner said the project will enhance many people’s lives. NYCHA leaders also praised the efforts to provide technological tools that will help connect and empower people in the community, where more than 3,300 residents live.
“Access to reliable technology is a necessity for thriving in today’s world, and this newly renovated computer lab represents a significant step forward in providing Van Dyke residents the opportunity to leverage this vital resource to learn, pursue job opportunities, and connect with the world around them,” NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt said.
The new lab space received 10 desktop computers, 10 Chromebooks, a printer, and new desks and chairs.
Chief Operating Officer Eva Trimble added: “The residents of Van Dyke Houses will now have access to an incredible community hub where they can engage with technology in a multitude of meaningful ways. Whether used for schoolwork, job searching, or career training, the space will serve as an invaluable launching pad for residents to leverage technology and improve the quality of their lives.”
The development of the new computer lab is part of PHCF’s ongoing commitment to expand digital access for NYCHA residents by transforming community center spaces into vibrant technology hubs. The nonprofit previously led lab projects at Pomonok Houses in Queens and the Meltzer Tower senior center in Manhattan.
“The investment into the computer lab will bring new life to the community center and greatly improve access to technology resources as the school year kicks off,” PHCF Executive Director Alex Zablocki said. “NYCHA communities have long lacked adequate resources to support residents in the digital world – and with each renovation to a technology hub, we’re working to bridge that gap.”
With the Van Dyke lab now online, the local resident association and community center operator CAMBA are partnering on programming and community use.