This year the Magic Johnson Foundation proudly celebrates 10 years of providing technology to distressed communities.

On August 4th, 2001, the Magic Johnson Foundation proudly opened the doors to their first technology based learning facility (now Computer Empowerment Centers/CECs) at former Ujima Village housing development in South Los Angeles with a single mission of bridging the digital divide. Mr. Johnson was quoted in the LA Times saying that his biggest victory would be when the technology divide in South Los Angeles was eliminated. The state of the art computer center was basketball themed proudly displaying Lakers colors and equipped with 25 computers, monitors, printers, scanners, copiers, laptops, projectors and ancillary components. The center at Ujima Village was in partnership with Los Angeles County Community Development Commission.


Established in 2001, The Magic Johnson Foundation's Community Empowerment Centers provide ethnically diverse urban communities access to resources and programming that educate, empower and strengthen individuals though the innovative use of technology. The original program focus was to bridge the digital divide. Since that time the focus has expanded to bring educational and programmatic resources that prepare youth, their parents and grandparents for school, college, the workforce and life. Students are provided free access to programs and services. We proudly partner with industry leaders to bring qualitative content in the areas of technology, literacy (reading and financial), workforce development and academic achievement.

Since 2001 18 Community Empowerment Centers have been established nationally established in 16 urban markets and the rural market of South Carolina with community based partners. CECs are in strategically physically located in housing developments, schools, parks and community space to address the needs of families living in economically distressed communities. We have proudly served on 245,000 since opening our doors!