“Thank God for this computer; I never would have found my new job without it,” says CTN learner Laurie Rehaney.
When Laurie Rehaney heard about CTN’s digital literacy classes in Sunnyvale, she jumped at the chance to improve her tech skills. She was already familiar with basic computer navigation from her previous job. However, Laurie did not have her own digital device or broadband access. This hindered her ability to fully participate in society — making it difficult to search for jobs, stay in communication, and work towards an improved quality of life.
When Laurie needed to get online, she would trek over to the public library’s computer lab. Yet, due to pandemic safety measures, the library was no longer a consistent option for her tech needs. Laurie was enthusiastic, then, upon learning that she could keep a Chromebook laptop after completing her lessons with CTN. “I don’t have a car, so I walked a long way to get to the first class,” she reflects. “That’s how important it was to me to get a computer and a job!”
Fortunately, Laurie was able to secure consistent transportation to and from classes at the Sunnyvale Center. With help from CTN instructor Tom Yang, she completed the full digital skills course by the end of October. “He is the best instructor,” says Laurie of Tom. “I highly recommend him. If you have a question, he will come over to help and show you how to do it. He’s very thorough and kind.”
Along with a small cohort of learners, Laurie learned how to navigate a Chromebook, use Gmail and Google applications, and search and apply for jobs. Thanks to her new skills, Laurie landed a full-time position working in home care. She is motivated to expand her digital skills, get back to work, and eventually move out of the Sunnyvale homeless shelter to a place of her own. For now, Laurie is eagerly awaiting CTN’s next round of classes: “I want to learn more … I always want to learn — anything about computers, I’m there.”
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