The Paterson YMCA recognizes that more and more every year nearly every aspect of our society is being dominated by technology. This, in and of itself, is not necessarily a bad thing. However, people who are socially and/or economically disadvantaged will continue to become further disadvantaged if they do not have access to, and/or have the skills to use computer and computer-related technologies.
Through our technology education program, the Paterson YMCA is committed to providing access to technology through which people of all ages, especially those with least access, can learn to use these technologies in an environment that encourages exploration and discovery, while enhancing academic and career-related skills.
Our facility contains the following:
Laser printer, Scanner, digital camera
The purpose of the YMCA Technology Education Program is to provide to Paterson area residents access to computer and computer-related technologies. Through the access to this technology, academic and career-related learning opportunities are provided for children and adults that might not otherwise have the opportunity to do so.
Our facility currently serves the following:
Preschool Students - Students enrolled in our preschool receive an hour of instruction per week, coming to class twice a week for 30 minutes each session. The primary aim of these classes is to familiarize students with computer technology through the use of educational software that is carefully selected.
After School Program/Summer Day Camp - Students between the ages of 5 and 12 receive at least 1 hour per week of instruction as part of the curriculum of our after school school-aged childcare program. Students enrolled in this program come from the public school district and from other private institutions within the city of Paterson.
Paterson YMCA Resident Population - The Paterson YMCA currently houses up to 203 residents through its residential program. Paterson YMCA residents are granted access to the computer lab through adult literacy and computer training classes. Residents are also permitted to use computers in the computer lab to do such things as type a resume, or use training software to learn how to use programs such as Word or Excel, provided they obtain approval from the Technology Services Director and space is available in the computer lab at the requested time.
Adult Students - Adult education classes are offered to Paterson area residents for a nominal fee. Adult education classes are scheduled to meet one night per week (usually a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday) for a period of eight weeks, and range from the following:
1. Beginning computer concepts (basic keyboarding concepts/Windows XP/basic Internet concepts)
2. Microsoft Office (XP & 2003 - Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access & Publisher)
Active Paterson YMCA employees are allowed to take classes free of charge. Active Paterson YMCA members may take classes at a discounted rate (proof of membership required). For more information about these classes, please contact Technology Services at (973) 684-2320, ext. 44.
Go to Downloads Page to download a copy of current computer class description and schedule.
About the Paterson YMCA's Technology Education Program -