Bridging the Digital Divide: Miami Marlins, AT&T, and Human I.T. Connect Students for Success
Ahead of the new school year, the Marlins Foundation partnered with AT&T and Human-I-T to host a lively back-to-school laptop distribution at loanDepot park on Thursday, August 7. The event provided 250 students and their families from across South Florida with new laptops, ensuring they start the year with the necessary tools for success.
Held in the First Base Dugout Club, the event welcomed families from the Marlins Youth Academy, Marlins Nike RBI and Jr. RBI programs, Boys and Girls Club of Miami, and local partner schools. Technology is a vital tool for learning, and these new devices will help students stay connected and engaged in their education.
“This is the second year in a row we’ve partnered with the Marlins to distribute laptops to families in need of a device, and it’s been an amazing experience working with the team,” said Alex Dominguez, State Director for Corporate External and Legislative Affairs for AT&T. “From a personal perspective, this is especially meaningful as I went to school not too far from loanDepot park, so it’s a special opportunity to give back to the community.”
Guests enjoyed a full ballpark experience, complete with classic stadium food, upbeat music from a live DJ, a photobooth with Billy The Marlin, and face painting and balloon stations. Volunteers from AT&T, Human I.T., and the Marlins Foundation distributed the laptops alongside Marlins Legend and 1997 World Series Champion, Charles Johnson.
“My experience today has been excellent,” said Charles. “It’s always great to come out and support the Marlins and AT&T in what they’re doing to give back to the community.
We sometimes take for granted that everyone has access to technology, but not every household has a computer. For these young kids, receiving a laptop means they can stay connected for school and other opportunities, and that means a great deal.”
Gabe Middleton, CEO and Co-Founder of Human-I-T, passionately underscored the transformative power of technology in bridging opportunity gaps. “Technology is the key that unlocks potential, especially for our youth,” said Middleton. “That is why we are thrilled to team up with AT&T and the Miami Marlins Foundation to deliver 250 devices to families who need them most. Whether it is for school, work, or staying connected, this effort ensures that more people in this community have a real shot at success and a future full of possibility.”
Local organizations were on hand to provide additional resources. Amigos for Kids, a Miami-based nonprofit dedicated to preventing child abuse by strengthening families, were on hand to provide family-focused materials. ConnectFamilias, an organization that helps children and parents thrive through education, healthcare, and community support, also hosted a booth offering information and resources for local families.
“Just seeing the faces of not only the child who has just received a laptop, but their parents, says it all, because that laptop is a tool for their child’s future,” said Alfredo Mesa, Miami Marlins Vice President of Public Affairs. “It unlocks their future with good education, and that alone is worth everything that went into putting today together.
The beauty of giving back is that one day, many of the children who received laptops today will be in a position to pay it forward. These kids are the leaders, innovators, and role models of tomorrow. And after what they’ve experienced today, the future will be brighter because they will continue the cycle of giving.”
This initiative is part of AT&T’s Connected Learning program, which aims to help bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. Nationwide, AT&T will provide 30,000 laptops to families in need, 20,000 laptops across Florida, and 1,500 in South Florida. Together with Human I.T. and the Marlins Foundation, the event reflected a shared commitment to education, access, and opportunity for the youth.