UB Helps the Community: Phoenix Community Computer Lab

The University at Buffalo and Buffalo Common Council member Bonnie E. Russell helped to bring 10 computer terminals at the New Testament Revival Cathedral on Buffalo's East Side. 

The Phoenix Community Computer Lab is a joint effort to bring much-needed computing resources to the community. UB donated the computers and Council Member Russell provided $3,500 to cover equipment maintenance and further growth and expansion of the facility.  

UB recognizes the need for our community to have access to computing facilities, but the public access to computer in its on-campus libraries was not enough to fulfill the needs of the community.  UB has been working with local community centers and churches to open community computing centers like this.

Linwood Roberts of UB helped to manage the opening of this computer lab. "The area where the computer lab was placed is considered an underserved area - meaning, it is perceived that other areas receive more attention from the City, UB and other stakeholders than this area."

Roberts is a strong advocate of the need in this area. "The computer lab helps to fill the technological and digital divide experienced by residents in the neighborhood. It also will provide a safe place for area youth to do homework. Computers have become so ubiquitous, many people just assume everyone has one. That is not the case. Many times students are sent home with assignments requiring a computer and don't have the resources to complete the assignment." 

Maintenance? They have that covered too. UB's IT Computer Services Department provided volunteer technical support for the new community computing facility. UB is in it for the long haul. 

"Creation of community computer labs is critical for the development of skills that will help Buffalo residents contribute to and benefit from this new economy," said Marsha Henderson, UB's vice president for external affairs.

Roberts mentioned that UB welcomes anyone who is interested in helping out in future. "Others can assist by contacting UB (Office of Community relations) with any other ideas or initiatives to improve their neighborhoods.  Also, residents with experience and willing to volunteer, could contact our office to become tutors."

The Phoenix Community Computer Lab is in the New Testament Revival Cathedral, located at 987 Kensington Ave.