WESTBURY, N.Y.–Jovia Financial Credit Union said it is partnering with Connect the Dots, a Westbury, N.Y.—based nonprofit that offers underserved youth the opportunity to engage in experiential learning programs for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM).
Jovia said it will support the non-profit’s educational programs throughout 2022. The programs include exploration of technology careers, workforce development, and student-led community education programs like their signature annual Code-A-Thon and summer CreatingSTEAM programs.
This year's sponsorship also includes two new workforce development programs, “UpSkill NY” in partnership with Suffolk County Department of Labor, and “AI Challenge” in partnership with Amazon AWS Academy.
We Connect the Dots was founded by entrepreneur and Microsoft veteran Laurie Carey to address the digital divide in communities nationally. Currently the organization works with students, primarily in Long Island and in the Greater New York Metro area. The not-for-profit’s programs incorporate diverse populations, including providing underrepresented populations from low-income communities with opportunities to access and personally experience working in STEAM focused disciplines. These programs give students the skills they need to enter the workforce or continue their education in STEAM related fields such as engineering, science and computing, the credit unions said.
“Advancing the education and skills of young students and promoting financial literacy are hallmarks of our community initiative in supporting our youth,” said Chief Marketing Officer Renu Dalessandro. “By working in unison with We Connect The Dots, we are making a great impact within Long Island school districts to advance technology and we’re creating amazing learning experiences for our students. STEAM careers are in high demand and our efforts will encourage student interest.”
“Leadership throughout Jovia Financial Credit Union understands the importance of supporting STEAM education and career advancement. Their sponsorship will provide direct access to programs for those who need it most. These efforts will raise the awareness of students and teachers about the many STEAM related opportunities and career paths that exist,” said Laurie Carey, Chief Executive Officer, Nebula Professional Development Academy. “This partnership is critical, especially during the pandemic, when the challenges related to educating underrepresented youth have become more complex.”