Cox Innovation Lab brings new tech and new energy to Boys & Girls Club
Press release from Cox Communications
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida unveiled a state-of-the-art Cox Innovation Lab at its Northwest Boys & Girls Club location, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. The grand opening event on Tuesday, October 7, marked a major step forward in providing local youth with access to the tools and technology they need to thrive.
Empowering the Next Generation
This Innovation Lab is part of a national effort by Cox to expand access to digital learning and STEM education. Boys & Girls Clubs provide access to experiences and opportunities that enable kids to succeed in school, gain valuable workforce skills, become active in their community, and manage their health and well-being. In total, Boys & Girls Clubs of America has received nearly $70 million in cash and in-kind support from Cox and the James M. Cox Foundation to serve more Club members since its partnership began in 1977. In 2025, Cox and the James M. Cox Foundation are supporting 10 Innovation Labs across the country, along with enhanced programming and staff training to ensure long-term impact.
Cox Innovation Labs are the cornerstone of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Club Tech initiative, designed to help young people build digital skills, explore new interests, and prepare for the future, especially those who may not have access to technology at home.
“Thanks to the generous support of the James M. Cox Foundation and Cox Communications, our new Innovation Lab is sparking creativity, fueling curiosity, and encouraging intellectual exploration,” said Rona Welch, Area Director of 21st Century Clubs, Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida. “Through this lab, we’re equipping the next generation with the skills and confidence to become future leaders.”
The high-tech lab at the Northwest Club features laptops, 3D printers, podcast and recording equipment, modern furniture, and lighting, creating a safe, inspiring space where kids can learn, create, and connect.
A Legacy of Impact
Cox’s partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America spans decades, with more than 100 Innovation Labs now operating nationwide. These labs have become vital hubs for learning, exploration, and opportunity for thousands of kids and teens each year.
“We’re proud to invest in the future of Gainesville through this Cox Innovation Lab,” said Aimee Pfannenstiel, Cox Central Florida market vice president. “Thanks to the James M. Cox Foundation, we’re helping young people unlock their potential and build brighter futures by keeping them a step ahead.”
Looking Ahead
Cox is continuing to expand broadband access right here in Gainesville, helping more families get online and stay connected. By teaming up with trusted community partners like Boys & Girls Clubs and Connect2Compete (C2C), Cox is working to ensure that every student and family has the digital tools they need to thrive at home, in school, and beyond.