Penguins, FNB team to donate $100K for youth technology center in Pittsburgh's Hill District

Youth in Pittsburgh’s Hill District use the Ammon Community Recreation Center as a place to play flag football, basketball, lift weights and play video games.

They’ll soon be able to use a computer lab and maker space that are planned to be added to the center.

The Ammon Rec2Tech Education Center announced Thursday is being funded by a $100,000 donation from the Pittsburgh Penguins and FNB Corp. The Rec2Tech computer lab aims to reduce the digital divide that exists for some students and their families in the Hill District.

Started in Baltimore by the Digital Harbor Foundation, Rec2Tech is a national program that seeks to motivate government and community leaders to turn public places that may be under-used into technology centers for youth.

“We are proud to join with F.N.B. Corporation, the City of Pittsburgh and the Hill District community in advancing this critical project that will transform an underutilized space, creating an innovation center that will help lead children to a bright future,” David Morehouse, president and CEO of the Penguins, said in a statement.

This donation by the Pens and FNB will fund a renovation at Ammon that will create the lab that will allow for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning opportunities.

“Together with the Penguins and the City of Pittsburgh, we are committed to creating opportunities for long-term growth and success in the vibrant neighborhoods that define our region,” FNB Corp. President and CEO Vincent J. Delie, Jr. said in a statement. “

The new lab will become a critical hub for youth in the neighborhood and boost their digital literacy skills, Delie said.

The investment by the Pens and FNB show what can happen when the city partners with businesses to improve neighborhoods, Mayor Bill Peduto said.

“I’m excited for the opportunities being offered to Hill District youth, which are matched with other investments being made into small businesses and housing in the community,” Peduto said.

Councilman R. Daniel Lavelle, who represents the neighborhood on council, noted the negative impact the covid-19 pandemic is disproportionately having on Black communities and said that as kids prepare to begin a new school year it’s important they have the computer resources and skills that are necessary to learn.

“Putting Rec2Tech in Ammon will ensure many within the Hill District will not be crippled by the digital divide, but instead be online and active learners during this unprecedented time,” Lavelle said.

The Ammon Rec2Tech Education Center will be managed and operated by Citiparks employees and it is expected to open by the middle of next year.he coming months and years.