Teens spend a lot of times playing games. What if we could leverage that interest to build community and inspire a career in STEM? We’re doing just that through casual gaming and tech clubs. In our gaming sessions and workshops, we discuss career opportunities, life lessons and values built-in to games, potential risks and ethical issues, manhood, brotherhood, and emotional maturity.

Our newest STEM initiative is the Computer Build Club in collaboration with Rise Prep. The objective is to build a working computer. First, teens are getting a technical understanding of computers. They are researching different parts needed such as the graphics card, processor, motherboard, memory, case, storage, power supply, and cooling system.

Last year we collaborated with Bayview United Gaming to supported BUG’s monthly gaming lounge for high school youth in the neighborhood. Fueled by a shared love of gaming and some friendly competition, it was a great space for youth to build positive peer community, learn about college and career pathways for gaming, receive mentorship, and get exposure to the Bible.