Community Tech Network’s relationship with the I.T. Bookman Community Center highlights some of the many ways in which CTN supports its partner organizations.
CTN began working with I.T. Bookman through SF Connected, a program run by the City of San Francisco which provides free digital literacy courses in senior centers and housing developments. Prior to the pandemic, CTN provided in-person tutors for I.T. Bookman’s computer lab. Since then, I.T. Bookman has referred many of their clients to CTN’s Home Connect Program, which teaches digital skills to older adults in a remote setting.
Says Steph Minor, CTN’s senior program manager: “The Home Connect graduates from I.T. Bookman are now able to stay connected with their community center even when it is closed or they are unable to attend events in person. With their new digital skills, they can attend virtual programming and keep up to date with what’s happening by receiving newsletters.”
In addition to these formal trainings, CTN also hosts workshops and other events at I.T. Bookman. Last month, Steph and CTN’s program and volunteer manager, Pat Jew, offered a Tech Support Pop-Up at the community center, in which they answered general questions about the internet and software. Many of the I.T. Bookman visitors who were referred to and graduated from the Home Connect Program were in attendance. In August, CTN plans to host another Pop-Up event at the center, which will help seniors sign up for the Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides discounted broadband services.
Says Steph: “The staff at I.T. Bookman is truly committed to the communities that they support. They’re great at finding ways to provide services to their populations.”
It’s been an honor to work with them.
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