CELEBRATING CEI IPAD TRAINING GRADUATES
As a part of our partnership with the Center for Elders Independence (CEI), CTN instructors have spent the past year working with groups of isolated senior learners on their digital skills via CEI’s iPad Training Program. Last week, we had the special honor of celebrating the accomplishments of a new cohort of learners graduating from their eight-week digital literacy course!
The Zoom-style ceremony welcomed 29 guests, including CTN and CEI staff members and 16 new senior learners. Here are a few quotes that learners shared during the event, summing up their responses to the program:
- I hope the program continues so I can retake the classes — I enjoyed them so much!
- I am grateful that I can learn while staying safe at home.
- This program helped my social isolation. I could stay at home but still be connected to the outside!
- I’m happy that I came to this country because I’ve learned so much. There’s no other place I could go and learn like I can at CEI.
- Carlos was such a helpful and patient teacher.
- I was very happy to join the class. I learned how to join Zoom and use email.
- It was fun and the class was enjoyable.
- I love it. I use my iPad regularly — I’m using it right now!
Navigating the internet for the first time is no small feat. We are grateful for the efforts CEI made to make these learners feel accomplished in their hard work and success. Check out this promotional video featuring CTN Instructor Carlos Sivira about the CEI digital literacy program.
COMMUNITY TECH NETWORK SPOTLIGHT
LEARNER: LUIS MASCARENHAS
“CTN has put me on a new adventure path of life,” says Home Connect participant Luis Mascarenhas. “The program offers great support. It’s one-on-one. We go slow. They constantly give you feedback on your progress. It has made me a happier and more productive person.”
Read how the Home Connect program increased Luis’s quality of life.
VOLUNTEER: JI SHI
Volunteer digital coach Ji Shi moved to the U.S. from China to study computer science. After graduating last year, Ji was unable to return to her native country due to COVID-19. In the meantime, she decided to use her free time to volunteer and help others. Check out Ji’s rewarding journey volunteering with CTN.
BOARD MEMBER: ERIC BEATTIE
“CTN is one of those wonderful organizations that strengthen our community,” says Eric Beattie. A valued board member since 2017, Eric is passionate about helping older adults navigate the complexities of the internet. Read Eric’s journey with CTN.
2021 DIGITAL EQUITY ACT INTRODUCED TO SENATE
We are excited to report that the 2021 Digital Equity Act was introduced to the U.S Senate last week. The bipartisan act strengthens federal support for digital equity by establishing two grant programs to be administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). In a world where digital skills and digital access are needed to get an education, invest in skills training, apply for jobs, access unemployment benefits, and more, digital equity is essential. We have to make sure that everyone — no matter where they live — can fully participate in our society, democracy, and economy. The Digital Equity Act would secure a landmark investment to help make this a reality. For further information, visit Digitalequityact.org.
THE LEWIS LATIMER PLAN FOR DIGITAL EQUITY AND INCLUSION
On a recent episode of The Divide podcast, Clint Odom and Blair Levin discuss the Lewis Latimer Plan for digital equity and inclusion. The plan — put forth by the National Urban League earlier this year — strategizes how to leverage the tools of the information economy to create a more equitable and inclusive society. CTN is excited to see a national broadband plan that sufficiently addresses equity and inclusion. For further details, read the National Urban League’s recent press release and check out our summary on the blog.
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