A lack of computer technology, also called a digital divide, exists in families that live at or below the poverty line. An Equity through Education grant provided by the Thunderbirds Charities to non-profit College Bound AZ aims to change that story.
The mission of the Arizona nonprofit College Bound AZ is to share the journey to college with aspiring underrepresented students through scholarships, guidance, and support resources for their advancement to a better life through education.
“Laptops are more essential than ever,” says Gerald Paulus who mentors College Bound AZ alumni Elliott Aw studying mechanical engineering at Arizona State University. “We’re using graphing programs to complete homework assignments for calculus. A laptop is essential and must have a robust capability to help students succeed.” A laptop scholarship benefitted College Bound AZ alumna and Arizona State University student Yudidt Nonthe Sanchez, a 2024 Truman Scholar.
With the help of the Thunderbirds Charities’ Equity through Education grant, students in College Bound AZ’s high school program can apply for a laptop scholarship and go to college better prepared. “The number of students with financial need increases every year,” says Lisa Rivera, College Bound AZ. “A laptop is very important, in fact it’s a ‘Tool for Success”. Our refurbished laptops meet technical specifications for college work. We want to provide a laptop to every student in need and with the help of Thunderbirds Charities, we are one step closer for the 100 or so students that need help.”
This grant is part of the Spring 2024 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.