ADT donation turns abandoned house into learning lab

BALTIMORE – Thanks to a generous donation from ADT to the Requity Foundation, students from the Carver Vocational-Technical High School are using a once abandoned home as a learning lab.

ADT announced a partnership with the Requity Foundation, a non-profit that provides vocational education and workforce development, earlier this month. The foundation was provided with a $100,000 donation, as well as an in-kind donation of ADT hardware. “At ADT our mission is safe, smart and sustainable,” said Senior Vice President John Owens. “Our donation also includes a smart security system and rooftop solar for Carver House.” The smart security system and rooftop solar are valued at more than $30,000.

The Carver House is one of thousands of historic row houses that now sit empty in Baltimore. Their rejuvenation and utilization are a goal of Mayor Brandon Scott. “Revitalizing these historic houses is essential to rebuilding our city,” he said.

Renovation by Carver students began on the home in 2020 and has been good practice of applicable skills. “By getting hands-on experience, Carver students are better trained for higher-paying construction jobs and stronger career paths,” said Michael Rosenband, Requity co-founder.

Mayor Scott agrees. “It gives them a chance to achieve financial mobility — not just for them, but for their families,” he said. “Together we are ushering in a new career movement in Baltimore.”

ADT notes that through its local branch offices, it is also providing mentoring for the students and designing a training curriculum. Eventually, Carver students could join ADT in the future as technicians.

More on this story at newsroom.adt.com.