Finding hope and help: United Way of Denton County’s digital skills training empowers attendees

Denton County, Tx (October 31, 2024) - At the United Way of Denton County in Texas, something remarkable happened in October: individuals from all walks of life gathered to embark on a journey toward digital empowerment. The free Digital Skills Training classes, led by Connected Nation’s Marco Mata, offered a lifeline of knowledge and support for people navigating the complexities of today’s technology-dependent world.

Beverly Lee, a breast cancer survivor, was one of the attendees. Her story of resilience and resourcefulness resonated with Marco and the class. Beverly initially stopped by the center for resources and ended up staying for the training. Reflecting on her journey with breast cancer, she explained how technology had become essential — not only in her health care through advancements like chemo ports, but also in her self-advocacy and research.

“Early detection and new treatments saved my life,” she said. “But the technology, and even just having access to the internet, allowed me to find the support I needed and resources I wouldn’t have otherwise known about.”

In the class, Beverly went from relying on technology solely for research to gaining practical skills for day-to-day tasks. She learned to make three-way calls and merge phone calls, and she even helped other participants by passing on what she learned. For her, this class was about more than just technology — it was a chance to connect, learn, and give back.

Another participant, Cecilia Shuffler, shared that she has felt left behind in an increasingly digital society. Moving to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, she found that even basic tasks, like saving files or navigating mobile devices, posed a challenge.

“I use technology for everything, or at least I will now,” Cecilia said with a smile. She added that she’s looking forward to feeling more connected and efficient in her new environment.

For Marco, each class is an opportunity to change lives by teaching foundational digital skills. His approach of welcoming anyone to learn, no matter their background, made him a favorite among attendees. “It’s rewarding to watch people gain confidence,” he said. “These skills open doors to independence, connection, and opportunity.”

Connected Nation and the United Way of Denton County know that digital literacy can be a game-changer. Each lesson serves as a stepping-stone to a more informed, connected, and empowered community.

Want to bring these classes to your community?

If your organization wants to bring these free workshops to your area, let us know! With trainers like Marco Mata and Alek Argueta, attendees gain valuable skills and leave inspired.

To learn more, visit Connected Nation's Digital Literacy Learning page or fill out an interest form to bring this impactful program to your community.