Innovation Lab Launches at Boys & Girls Club of AP
First tech lab of its kind in the state will work in partnership with existing Computer Lab and Hip Hop Institute
The Asbury Park Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County debut its Innovation Lab Thursday.
The first of its kind in the state, the creative 
technology space was funded by North Star New Jersey in partnership with the NJ Lottery.
“As part of their community involvement, they provide these programs,” NJ Lottery Deputy Executive Director John Custodio said of North Star. “This is an advanced technological lab. The children here will be able to make their own movies.”
The lab features five IBM laptops, a Macbook, GoGoProamera with a green screen and accessory video equipment, a smart board and a 3D printer, Executive Director Douglas Eagles said.
A technology director will be hired to develop programs that will tie together the Monroe Avenue facility’s existing Computer Lab and its Hip Hop Institute.
“It will create a whole array of STEM programming,” Eagles said.
The computer lab launched last year and consists of 12 student computers and an instructor computer, funded by the Friends of the Spring Lake Five Foundation. The Hip Hop Institute, done in partnership with Lakehouse Recording Studios, launched two years ago. It features audio engineering, hip-hop dance, and record label 101 programs.
“We are focused on providing an opportunity to empower the kids that come to this club every day to succeed in life,” Eagles said. “Whether that is through technology programs, sports programs or academic programs, we work tirelessly to equip every one of these kids who come through our doors to succeed in life.”
The Boys and Girls Club depends on a host of volunteers and staff that is trained in youth development strategies.
Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling [D-11] was on hand to present a proclamation to North Star and Eagles for the innovative lab and work.
The local Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County is located at 1201 Monroe Ave. For more about the organization, www.bgcmonmouth.org.
—————————————————-
Follow the Asbury Park Sun on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The Asbury Park Sun is affiliated with the triCityNews newspaper.
