In today’s world, everything happens online, from grocery shopping to job applications… digital literacy is more than just a “nice-to-have” —it’s essential. Studies show that nearly 80% of jobs in the U.S. require digital skills, but for many in our community, these skills can feel intimidating, especially if they didn’t have the chance to learn technology early on.
For many in our classes, digital literacy isn’t just about knowing how to use a computer. It’s about staying connected in a world that’s quickly becoming more digital. It’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, can take advantage of the opportunities that technology offers.
From Fear to Confidence: Participants’ Motivation to Learn
For some, it’s about running their small home business more smoothly. For others, it’s helping family members with their daily tasks or simply staying in touch with loved ones. The need for technology skills is real, and we see it every day in each of our Technology classes.
Simple tasks like double-clicking, resizing windows, or understanding the menu bar may seem easy for some—but for many, mastering these steps is a big deal. These basic skills—like resizing photos in Word, learning mouse control, and organizing files—are the building blocks of digital confidence. The small victories, like figuring out how to save a document or send an email, are what help students grow in their confidence, step by step.
As one of our students, Rigo, shared: “Necesito aprender la computación. Al menos lo básico, para no quedarme sin aprender.” Rigo’s words capture something many of us feel—fear of falling behind in a world where technology is changing so quickly. But with the right guidance and support, no one should be left out.
“I need to learn computing. At least the basics, so I don’t get left behind. A lot of the times, we’re waiting for our children to help. The thing is, they may not always be around.
Together, We Grow: Empowering Our Community Through Digital Literacy
During this initial quarter, we have served 111 students who are highly committed to their growth and advancement, enrolling in a class, ranging from Introduction to Computers to Caminos, our advanced career prep program.
Under the leadership of Asset Building Manager, Eva Chena and a team of skilled and passionate instructors made up by: Luisa Ortega, Monica Piceno, Najwa Nimati (our Farsi instructor) and Veronica Raxon; we’re creating more than just skilled individuals—we’re building a network of people who care about each other’s successes.
Through our courses, we aim to equip community members with the skills they need not just to stay connected with friends and family, but to provide employability skills. Additionally, while it’s great that many rely on their children for help, we believe in giving the tools to each person to take control of their own digital literacy. These digital skills help people apply for jobs, manage finances, and access important services. They give community members the independence to keep moving forward in life and work.
In our classes, we create a space where we’re doing more than teaching technology—we’re creating a space where people can learn at their own pace, where frustration can turn into laughter, and where every small success is celebrated. It’s not just about mastering a computer; it’s about lifting each other up along the way.
Building a Stronger, More Connected Community
Whether it’s learning to send an email, applying for a job, or finding the information you need online, every new skill learned benefits not just the individual, but the entire community. This work continues to be possible with the support of amazing funders, a passionate team and committed volunteers. Milagro, one of our volunteers for approximately two years, after completing the intermediate class fell in love with our program, decided to stay connected and give back to her community.
Over nearly 20 years, we’ve had the pleasure of equipping community members and transforming lives. Through digital literacy, we’re giving people the confidence to navigate today’s world, no matter where they start. Together, we are creating a future where technology is a bridge, not a barrier—a future where our community has the tools they need to thrive.
