This summer, we officially launched our GoodTech program in partnership with the Best Buy Teen Tech Center (BBTTC) at THEARC in Washington, D.C. THEARC serves as a hub for multiple nonprofit organizations offering programs for youth and families in Ward 8.
GoodTech empowers youth to use technology as a force for good—building the digital skills and confidence needed to become thoughtful, creative changemakers.
At the heart of this launch was our new facilitator, Verrett Taylor, who brought his digital media expertise and deep passion for visual storytelling to the program. Throughout the summer, youth at BBTTC explored a variety of media platforms – photography, videography, digital art, podcasting, and music. They gained a range of technical skills through hands-on experiences like learning how to take photos that tell a story, conduct thoughtful interviews, and produce compelling PSAs with strong calls to action.
To deepen that understanding, they analyzed culturally significant pieces like Beyoncé’s Freedom music video and Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance—exploring how art and technology can be used to share stories and drive positive change.
GoodTech isn’t just about using cool tech. Our program weaves together digital literacy, civic engagement, and social-emotional learning (SEL) to guide youth in creating work that’s both meaningful and mission-driven. Youth at BBTTC produced digital artwork, podcasts, and PSAs to raise awareness about issues they care about, including disability rights, homelessness, food insecurity, and teen mental health.
