YMCA OF METROPOLITAN DALLAS DEBUTS FIRST MOBILE Y UNIT
The “Tech Hub” delivers STEM lab education & gaming experience to North Texas youth
Dallas, Texas (July 12, 2022) – The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas celebrated the unveiling of its first-ever mobile Y unit, the Tech Hub, at the Moorland Family YMCA at Oak Cliff on Tuesday. The Tech Hub provides an interactive learning environment for youth interested in STEM education including labs in robotics, coding, and chemistry experiments among several other programs.
By providing more accessibility to these unique classes, children and teens, specifically those in underserved communities, have an opportunity to improve their problem-solving skills, and teamwork capabilities and expand their creative talents.
“The Y has consistently put education first through our summer learning academies and after-school programs,” said Curt Hazelbaker, CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. “But what the Tech Hub provides is a hands-on approach that gives children the power to become more self-sufficient. It’s one of the most exciting launches we’ve been a part of and look forward to seeing the community come together.”
The Tech Hub can also transform into a gaming center. It houses four PlayStation 5s, a VR station, and three Nintendo Switches, and can fit up to 28 children who can view and play on seven 55” HD TVs. The center will be able to support the Y’s participation in eSports, a video game competition among individuals and teams.
“The Y mobile units bring the YMCA experience to neighborhoods where we may not have a presence,” said Keith Vinson, Vice President of Operations. “It gives us a chance to meet people where they are and show them what we can offer. The landscape of education and play is constantly changing and our approach should too.”
The Y shared the news of a second mobile unit called the “Rec Hub,” which will provide access to recreational sports such as basketball and hockey, as well as board games and cornhole. The Rec Hub is expected to be open to tour and use later this summer.
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas serves thousands of men, women and children each year, regardless of age, income or background. Anchored in 21 North Texas communities, the Dallas Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver lasting personal and social change. The Y ensures all people have equitable access to the essentials needed to become thriving members of the community. Daily, the Y bridges and fills individual and community needs as a catalyst for impactful change. The YMCA makes accessible the support and opportunities that empower people and communities to learn, grow and thrive, with three areas of focus: Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. To learn more or get involved in improving our local communities, have opportunities to make an impact and support your neighbors, please visit us at www.ymcadallas.org.