BY ALLEN HOWARD
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Sausha Parham and Karla Bullock have a world of information at their fingertips.
They are among about 65 children who are part of a computer program called Life Way Learning Lab at the Melrose YMCA in Walnut Hills. The lab was dedicated last week after the YMCA received computers from Union Central Life Insurance Co. The computer program is part of the Youth Connection Learning Center at the YMCA, which is funded by United Way.
"I am glad to be in the lab," said Sausha, 10, a student at Eastern Hills Foreign Academy in Mount Washington. "We have computers at school, but having this program will help a lot."
Karla, 12, a student at Hoffman Elementary School in Walnut Hills, is glad to be in the lab because it will give her extra time on computers.
"We can do research papers and resumes," she said.
Jack Armstrong, executive director of the Melrose YMCA, said the lab provides computer access to children and adults who otherwise would not get the opportunity.
He said the YMCA has started after-school lab sessions and will also run the labs on weekends.
"This provides an environment where people can learn and stay up to date on computer technology," Mr. Armstrong said. "Youth today can strive for and achieve unlimited potential when they have the right resources."
The YMCA's Youth Connection Learning Center targets youngsters ages 8-15, Mr. Armstrong said. He said the center includes the computer lab.
Union Central employees will have the opportunity to volunteer their time at the lab on a monthly basis. The company donated $5,000 worth of computers and other equipment.
"Our children are truly fortunate to have such a state of the art computer lab," Mr. Armstrong said. Mr. Armstrong emphasized the importance of community support for programs such as the learning center and computer lab.
The United Way is in the midst of its annual campaign and just celebrated "Community Care Week," highlighting United Way volunteer-supported programs vital to area residents.
