IGT STAFF VOLUNTEER TIME AND TECH SKILLS TO SUPPORT NGOS
IGT Team members spread Easter cheer at the Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago (ASTT).
MONDAY, 30 JAN 2023 – PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO: IGT has committed to helping build sustainable communities in Trinidad and Tobago, starting from within the organisation by cultivating a year-round culture of employee-driven volunteerism. The company’s flagship community initiative, the IGT After School Advantage (ASA) programme, connects IGT corporate staff with community organisations to ensure that young people have access to technology and opportunities to learn digital skills in safe, nurturing after-school environments.
IGT Draw Coordinator Lead Leslie-Ann Baxam, and IGT Draw Coordinator Varun Bhageraty unpack new computers in preparation for installation at the Homework Centre located at Christ Child Convalescent Home. The IGT employees executed the entire installation much to the delight of the children at the home.
The ASA Programme maintains several fully-equipped tech labs in children’s homes and community organisations across Trinidad and Tobago. Throughout the year, IGT employees volunteer their time at these organisations, taking part in a variety of events such as holiday celebrations, installing new computer equipment, and teaching the youth about skills needed to have successful careers and personal growth.
IGT volunteer Tanya Singh and Crystal Rodney share a moment as they build a puzzle with pre-vocational students of Immortelle Centre.
IGT’s ASA partners include Amica House, Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago, D’abadie, Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago -The Life Skills Centre of Point Fortin, Caribbean Kids & Families Therapy Organisation (CKFTO), Casa de Corazón, Christ Child Convalescent Home, Cotton Tree Foundation, Immortelle Children’s Centre, Jairah Boys and Raffa Girls, Learning is for Everyone (L.I.F.E), National Centre for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), Rainbow Rescue Boys, The Just Because Foundation, The Memisa Centre, Scarborough Centre for Youth Development, Sylphil Home in Love, and Credo Sophia House. In 2023, IGT will continue to upgrade the technology at existing ASA centres and equip new labs in qualifying non-governmental organizations serving youth.
IGT volunteers (from left) Shawn Reason, (with back to the camera) Leslie Ann Baxam, Tanya Singh and Crystal Rodney sing-along and play instruments with residents of the Memisa Centre.
IGT employee Dominic Nelson welcomed the opportunity to make a difference in children’s lives through the ASA programme. He shared, “The children at these centres and homes should know, regardless of circumstance, regardless of your past – your future can always be changed. I tell them to be yourself, be original, do what you believe to be right and stick to your values. There is nothing that cannot be achieved once you have confidence in yourself.”
IGT volunteers Dena Bartholomew (Software Test Technician), Crystal Rodney (Jr Key Accounts Associate), and Varun Bhageraty (Draw Coordinator) complete installation of desktop computers at Cotton Tree Foundation.
Deputy Country Manager of IGT Trinidad and Tobago Dexter Thomas expanded on IGT’s purpose, stating, “IGT’s community programmes aim to support youth through mentorship and education, developing their potential as future innovators and promoting the benefits of emotional intelligence and positive work ethic. Young people need responsible adults in their lives who they can emulate. IGT volunteers participating in activities with ASA partners can help fill that role by modeling professionalism, imparting positive messages and providing career insights to motivate the youngsters.”
One of the highlights of the year for ASA partners is the annual Coding and Robotics Rock! Camp, in which the IGT team shares technological expertise to assist in the education of young people who would not otherwise have access to courses in coding and robotics in web development and artificial intelligence (AI). The virtual summer camp is made possible through the dedication of the IGT team and its partners, who remain committed to bringing new knowledge and opportunities to the students in the IGT ASA Centres in Trinidad and Tobago.
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About IGT Trinidad and Tobago
As the full-service lottery provider to the National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB), IGT manages the distribution, accounting, and validation of the Lottery’s instant ticket business. In addition to lottery and instant ticket services, through VIA, a commercial services company, IGT provides prepaid mobile phone top-up and bill payment services over lottery terminals in Trinidad and Tobago.
About IGT
IGT (NYSE:IGT) is a global leader in gaming. We deliver entertaining and responsible gaming experiences for players across all channels and regulated segments, from Lotteries and Gaming Machines to Sports Betting and Digital. Leveraging a wealth of compelling content, substantial investment in innovation, player insights, operational expertise, and leading-edge technology, our solutions deliver unrivaled gaming experiences that engage players and drive growth. We have a well-established local presence and relationships with governments and regulators in more than 100 countries around the world, and create value by adhering to the highest standards of service, integrity, and responsibility. IGT has approximately 10,500 employees. For more information, please visit www.igt.com.
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