Brownsville Learning Lab

Brownsville Learning Lab

Open and ready for business! The Brownsville Learning Lab is a place where learners between the ages of 12 – 24 can receive additional assistance with their educational or work related needs. The Brownsville Community Justice Center (BCJC) along with the Juvenile Robbery Intervention Program (JRIP) has provided a comfortable “home-like” computer lab, where learners can do homework, type up a paper, look for a job or just browse the web.  All of our free programming are geared to strengthen each student's ability to express ideas effectively, creatively, confidently, and in his or her individual voice.

What makes our lab unique is that we are not a traditional computer lab with strict rules and limited social engagement. We want to be able to keep our learners engaged by allowing them to be themselves and not limiting their greatness. Our Peer Mentors also sets us apart from the rest. Our Peer Mentors, who are well experienced with working with the BCJC and the JRIP, are Brownsville residents and have experience with many issues they face growing up in the community. They are able to keep participants focused and are always able to “bring it back” when discussions go off topic.

We offer drop-in hours on Mondays through Thursdays from 3:30-6:30PM. Peer Mentors are available at the lab and ready to assist students with homework, writing assignments, creative writing, and publishing projects. The Learning Lab also offers assistance with resume writing and job readiness skills. Although our target is young people 12 – 24, anyone from Brownsville can utilize this resource. In fact, it is highly encouraged that our young people interact with their elders in a positive educational setting.  All are welcomed!

Participants of the Learning Lab are eligible for internship opportunities with the lab and with other programs at the Brownsville Community Justice Center.