The sky is not the limit for the determined teens of Atlantic City, thanks to Battelle’s continued support of local STEM initiatives. On February 1, 2024, the Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City (ACBGC) proudly acknowledged an additional earmarked contribution of $30,000 to boost their burgeoning aviation and drone program. This is the third consecutive year that Battelle has pledged support to ACBGC.
The multi-faceted aviation program began in fall 2022, when promising STEM high-school students got to take an introductory aviation course offered through Atlantic Cape Community College. Those students then worked with ACBGC staffers to mentor 160 inner-city youths during the second half of the school year, exposing even more Atlantic City children and teens to the use of drones and opportunities presented by the aviation industry.
Lauren Moore, President of the Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA), remarked, “This substantial investment speaks volumes about Battelle’s dedication to community outreach and educational advancement. Investments like this change lives and enhance futures for the youth of Atlantic City.”
Don LaMonaca, Director of Battelle’s Critical Infrastructure Business Line, reflected on the continuing partnership: “Battelle is more than an incubator of science and technology; we are nurturers of the next generation of innovators. Our commitment is beyond infrastructure—it is deeply rooted in empowering young minds.”
The ACBGC is set to leverage this new grant for further enrichment of the program that has already seen accomplished milestones. Providing college-level education in aviation, facilitating hands-on drone activities, and fostering the creation of a buzz-worthy documentary on Atlantic City, the club’s teens have soared beyond expectations.
The ACBGC echoed the enthusiasm for the additional funding. Dr. Charles Wallace II, Chief Executive Officer of the ACBGC said, “The ACEA’s leadership and commitment is an example for all to follow. The ACEA team was instrumental in successfully applying for this grant to support career pathways for our talented youth in the innovation and aerospace industries. The ACBGC thanks the ACEA and Battelle for their support.”
Battelle’s continued partnership comes on the wings of past success, readying for another year of academic opportunities—rooted in discovery, technology, and the anticipation of watching Atlantic City’s young minds achieve great heights.
