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ROUND ROCK, Texas--([ BUSINESS WIRE ])--Dell today announced it is providing $2.4 million to 50 charities supporting 34 programs benefiting underserved youth across the United States as part of its youth [ learning initiative ]. Through technology, education, training and grants, Dell will provide underserved communities in 11 states the resources they need to succeed in a connected and globalized society. The initiative is part of Powering the Possible, Dellas commitment to put its technology and expertise to work where it can do the most good for people and the planet.

"Project Based Learning for the 21st Century"

[ Dellas Powering the Possible ] youth learning initiative works to close the learning gap that exists for millions of youth around the world who may not have access to quality programs, teachers and tools to learn. The initiative is aimed at teaching students important information and communications technology (ICT) skills to prepare them for school, work and life; maximizing their learning ability through technology access; and increasing their potential in a highly technological, global world. In addition, Dell team members volunteer their time and expertise to help grant recipients and serve as role models and mentors to youth.

All programs and charities, selected through a rigorous process engaging Dell team members and Dellas Giving Council, share the vision to prepare youth for success through the development of ICT skills. Details on the 50 charities and the programs selected can be viewed at [ www.dell.com/youthlearningpartners ].

Learning how to think critically, solve problems, communicate, and collaborate are foundational skills to advance careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) a" an important component of Dellas commitment to education. Many of the recipients focus on advancing programs to support STEM. Examples include:

• [ Girl Scouts USA ], the premier national leadership development organization for girls. Through Dellas involvement with five local councils and the national organization, GSUSA, the aJourney and Connect Through Technology Programa has introduced young girls to ICT concepts and helped them gain skills that promote critical thinking and teamwork. This grant is Dellas only multi-year commitment; it will continue local council support and underwrite the development of a aBe the Video Game Designera program and curriculum. The program engages girls in ICT and STEM skills by putting them in the driveras seat as they choose avatars, storylines and other video game features that will inform the development of a new video game to be available on the GSUSA website.
• [ Girlstart ], an Austin-based charity that coordinates Girlstart After School a" one of the most robust STEM-focused after-school programs for girls in the country.
• [ The University of Texas Elementary School ]aProject Based Learning for the 21^st Century,a which provides opportunities for East Austin elementary students to develop skills and knowledge in the area of technology, to interact with technology professionals from their community, and to foster a high level of engagement and motivation regarding STEM fields. With a full-time STEM coordinator, students engaged in robotics, digital storytelling, animation and other fun science and math activities.
• [ Genesys Works a" Twin Cities ], a Minnesota-based charity that enables economically challenged high school students to enter the economic mainstream by providing them the knowledge and work experience required to succeed as information technology professionals.

Education plays a vital role in breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality in underdeveloped communities. Since 2009, Dellas youth learning initiative has reached more than 2.7 million children across 1,000 communities through more than 50 global partnerships. It originated in 2009 with the first grants being awarded in India. It quickly expanded to Brazil, Mexico, China, Morocco, South Africa, the UK and France in 2010, and then to Panama, the U.S. and Canada. In 2011, Dell team members around the world volunteered more than 418,000 hours. To see Dellas programs in action, watch this [ video ].

Quotes

Trisa Thompson, vice president of Corporate Responsibility at Dell
aChildren are learning in new ways, connecting with other people and gaining valuable skills. But itas not just about the technology; itas about preparing young people for success. This shared responsibility between Dell and the community brings about real learning opportunities and real change. Itas about helping youth discover more possibilities, because when theyare connected, their worldview becomes much wider and they better understand the opportunities that lie ahead.a

Anna Maria Chvez, chief executive officer, Girl Scouts of the USA
aWeare thrilled to partner with Dell on this exciting project. Technology and all of the STEM fields are essential to our nationas future and we at Girl Scouts are committed to exposing our girls to the amazing possibilities that STEM careers have to offer, from environmental science to computer engineering to designing that next generation of video games. And not only does this project expose girls to technology, but it also allows them to take the lead.a

About Dell

Dell Inc. (NASDAQ: DELL) listens to customers and delivers innovative technology and services that give them the power to do more. Powering the Possible is Dellas commitment to put technology and expertise to work where it can do the most good for people and the planet. Dell works with nonprofits to address pressing social issues by donating a combination of Dell technologies and solutions, funding, expertise and volunteer support. In 2011, Dell gave more than $44 million, and Dell team members volunteered more than 418,000 hours in their communities. Learn more at [ www.dell.com/communities ].

Follow us on Twitter at @Dell4Good and @DellEducation. Join our bi-weekly Twitter chats about learning with @MicheleatDell, Tuesdays beginning Aug. 28 at 3PM CDT. This weekas topic: Best Practices in out of School Learning. Follow the discussion at #PTPChat (Powering the Possible Chat).

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