Big friends give.. Needed Upgrade (Miami Herald)

When the last bell rings at Maya Angelou Elementary School in Allapattah, Michael Idalgo runs to the Latinos United in Action Center to use the computers, get help with homework and learn about staying away from drugs and gangs.

But the task of teaching dozens of children inside a half-century-old building with dirty walls, ugly bathrooms and decade-old computers was not easy for the centers staff.

Now, though, more than 25 new state-of-the-art computers, new floors, ceiling, bathrooms, furniture and murals have been installed in the center, at 3321 NW 17th Ave., that eight years ago used to be a pool hall.

With help from companies such as DirecTV, Microsoft and CompUSA and nonprofit organizations such as Hands on Miami, Hispanic Philanthropy and Generation Engage, the educational center has been transformed.

Original Article: Big friends give Allapattah center a needed upgrade
Release Date: 04/13/2008
Publication: MiamiHerald.com