Napa County youth received much needed computer hardware on July 17, thanks to Travis Credit Union.

"We truly believe in the credit union philosophy of people helping people," said Patsy Van Ouwerkerk, president and CEO of Travis Credit Union. "We look for ways to contribute to the communities we serve. When we learned of the important service that CyberMill provides to youth in Napa, we discovered that computer equipment we were replacing could be used by the organization. We were pleased that we could help the Napa community and promote the reuse of this equipment."

CyberMill Technology Center received four computers. They were delivered by Travis Credit Union employees to CyberMill in Napa and will be used in a variety of programs utilizing CyberMill's "stealth education" philosophy. This philosophy encourages the Napa County youth to learn important computer skills, develop their creativity and have fun while doing it.

Founded in 1999, CyberMill is an after-school technology center for all youth aged 9-18 that provides programs to more than 500 students each year in a multimedia computer learning center. At the center, they can learn important technology skills while receiving academic support.

CyberMill was grateful for the computers. "We are fortunate that Travis Credit Union directed their resources to us," stated Cynthia Dempsey, executive director of the CyberMill Technology Center.

Community Projects

At the General Meeting of Community Projects, Inc. on June 20, the members approved donations totaling $24,920 to five groups requesting financial assistance.

1. Napa Valley Youth Symphony -- To support a two-day retreat for musicians of the Napa Valley Youth Symphony.

2. Silverado Middle School -- To supplement their book collection and purchase quizzes for the Accelerated Reader Program.

3. Coats for Kids -- Funds to provide coats to kids and their families.

4. Napa County Office of Education -- To fill in a pool at Wintun School to be used as a garden.

5. First Impressions -- To once again help contribute to their program by providing budget assistance.

These donations are made possible by funds raised at the Community Projects Thrift Shop, located at 715 Franklin St., Napa. Shop hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Donation hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please call ahead for donations of large furniture.