Boundless Connections and Strength Solutions are collaborating to develop a pipeline which develops and retains local tech talent.

The TECH Unleashed program is for kids 13-17 years old interested in coding/programming, augmented and virtual reality, graphic art, 3d printing, animation, online broadcasting/podcasts, game development, esports, and video/audio editing, so if you know others that may be interested, please let us know or have them contact us. Together, they can accomplish so much more than on their own!

Goals of the Program:

Available to any young person with an interest in digital tech
Appeal to a diverse group of participants
Blend various technology skills to be of service to the community
Participant driven – participants choose projects to work on
Character building and leadership training
Year round program for various abilities
Interaction with young industry professionals and local companies

TECH Unleashed is an introduction to many aspects of technology for the participants, but they don’t have to be specifically interested in a tech career.  Many of our participants start with curiosity about new tech, and they stay because we create a comfortable atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.  Our collaborative environment includes doing service projects for the community which helps participants recognize opportunities and gain a reputation for their skills.

Each year starts with a camp at the Boundless Connections Tech Center (2nd floor of Sibley Square, 260 E Main St, Rochester, NY) where the main service project is selected by the participants. There are 2-day camps during the winter and spring breaks and 5 day camps during the summer months. The group also meets during the school year one afternoon a week (during the school year) to continue to work on tech service projects and have the opportunity to engage with their community while developing the technical skills needed to complete the projects.

While the community service projects are the glue that keeps the group focused on developing their tech skills, participants also get instruction on project and time management, leadership and team building, public speaking, research, and industry networking.

The TECH Unleashed participants will receive their own membership to the Boundless Connections Technology Center ($1000/year value). They are the only kids (under 18) allowed in the Technology Center without a parent or guardian. The participants will help set the tone by welcoming people, giving tours, and keeping the equipment in order which helps them interact with the community, gain experience, and become known for their tech skills.

We keep the cost of the program as low as possible. Our goal is to provide the TECH Unleashed Program to any student who is interested. The 1summer camp and camps over the winter and spring breaks includes lunch and snacks. The Friday meetings include pizza and snacks.

The total cost per participant is $250/month and includes their own membership to the Boundless Connections Technology Center ($1000/year value).

Scholarships are available! Strength Solutions spearheads the fundraising, grant writing and donations to make this affordable for the young techies in the Rochester area. We are pleased to announce that we have secured enough funding to provide partial scholarships on an as needed basis. If you feel that you are unable to cover the cost of the program simply indicate the amount you can contribute and scholarship will cover the rest.