NYC Parks Offers Digital Learning Resources For New Yorkers of All Ages

The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation launched its first "public computer lab" nearly 20 years ago at the Lower East Side's Al Smith Recreation Center in 1997. Today, NYC Parks is home to more than 30 Computer Resource Centers (CRCs), serving all New Yorkers-from seniors who have never touched a computer, to adolescent girls who are honing their computer science and coding skills. CRCs aim to increase community technology resources through providing internet access and technology education across the five boroughs-registration for the forthcoming session of classes begins today, Tuesday, Feb. 9.

"Our Recreation Centers are more than just gyms - they're also hubs of digital learning across the boroughs for those at varying levels of exposure and understanding," said NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP. "Through our programming, members are learning new skills, as well as certifying in areas that can help them advance at work. With free membership for kids under 18, and discounts for young adults and seniors, digital literacy with NYC Parks is accessible to all."

Our goal is to improve and expand community opportunities by providing quality workshops, free broadband access, one-on-one technology education, job-training opportunities, and individualized approaches to our member's recreational, academic, personal, and career pursuits. NYC Parks Computer Resource Centers (CRCs) serve more 6,000 New Yorkers per week at 32 locations with over 500 open access hours per week. CRCs also offer more than 200 creative workshops, classes and certification opportunities at 24 of its locations.

CRC Classes Include:

Senior Programming

• Genealogy Research
• Cloud Computing
• Introductory workshops
• Digital Photography
• AccessNYC - online social services
• Tax Prep

Adult/Workforce Development

• Job Search
• Introductory Microsoft Office
• TechOpps - free Certification Training
• Multimedia Workshops

College Internships

• Information Technology
• Graphic Design
• Film-Making/Audio Production
• Marketing
• Public Administration
• K-12 Education

Teen Programming

• SAT Prep/College Planning
• RecYouth - video, audio, graphic design, game design, photography, and web design.
• High school internships for school credit
• SPARX - STEAM-based learning for girls in the Bronx

Youth Programming

• Afterschool STEAM enrichment
• Digital Literacy and Safety
• Global Partners Jr - collaborative international curriculum
• Kids Code!