Spectrum Awards RDRC with $25K for Learning Lab

Spectrum has awarded a $25,000 Spectrum Digital Education grant to the Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation (RDRC) for its “Pathways Thru Tech for All” program.

The grant will boost computer training and certification training opportunities at RDRC’s “Pathways Thru Tech for All.” This program focuses on providing adult job seekers and continuing education learners with access to RDRC’s Spectrum Learning Lab, which launched in 2013.

“The longstanding public-private partnership with Spectrum has been a game changer for RDRC as we re-imagine how to utilize technology to prepare our low-and moderate-income job seekers with the skills needed for tomorrow’s workforce” said Kevin Alexander, President & CEO of RDRC. “The Spectrum Digital Education grant has enabled RDRC to launch its technology-based bridge program, Pathways Thru Tech for All, utilizing the Spectrum Learning Lab to offer hands-on training for persons with little to no experience with desktop operating and applications such as Windows, Microsoft Office and Google Suite.”

Established in 1978, RDRC’s mission is to promote the revitalization of the Rockaways economic base and neighborhoods, and to secure an improved quality of life for its residents. The community-based organization offers job training and placement assistance, vocation skills certification courses, small business assistance and important youth development programs.

“Technology is a powerful equalizer, but only if people have access to a computer and then know how to use it,” said Mike Williams, Regional Vice President of the NYC Region for Spectrum. “Through Spectrum Digital Education, we’re helping our nonprofit partners turn connectivity into real opportunities for their communities, from education and employment to everyday connection and independence.”

Alexander added, “We also recognize the multiplier effect Spectrum is having on our organization. We now have the capacity to offer traditional in-person learning, hybrid, 100% remote and self-paced learning opportunities for hundreds of residents who may, or may not have access to the Internet, or the necessary equipment to access the Internet in the comfort of their homes.”

Spectrum Digital Education continues to support initiatives that make a tangible impact in communities. In 2025, Spectrum awarded a total of $1.1 million in Spectrum Digital Education grants to 55 nonprofit organizations that work to expand access to digital tools, skills training and resources in the communities Spectrum serves.

Since launching in 2017, Spectrum Digital Education has committed more than $11 million to support 202 unique organizations across Spectrum’s 41-state service area. The program has awarded 382 grants, helping to distribute 20,000 laptops, more than 50,000 sponsored digital education classes, benefiting more than 200,000 community members nationwide.

Locally, RDRC is one of four New York City area recipients of the 2025 Spectrum Digital Education grant. Hispanic Federation, Korean Community Services and The STEM Alliance also received grants.

For 13 years, the Spectrum Learning Lab at RDRC has given Far Rockaway residents digital access through 16 computer stations where users can independently access essential government services and programs, work on resumes and cover letters, and research and apply for employment.

The Spectrum Learning Lab at RDRC is one of 40 that Spectrum established at nonprofit and community organizations throughout New York City. In 2023, Spectrum invested nearly a quarter of a million dollars towards the renovation and upgrade of 16 Spectrum Learning Labs, including the RDRC.

As part of the Learning Labs, Spectrum provides state-of-the-art technology, peripheral equipment and Internet access at no charge. The company’s commitment to the Spectrum Learning Lab includes Spectrum Internet and TV services, computer equipment and software, flat-screen HDTVs and other furnishings.