How digital literacy workshops create an opportunity for personal and community growth
Longview, Texas (January 31, 2023) — Digital inclusion and digital literacy are not only essential for personal development, but also for community growth. That’s why Connected Nation (CN) is committed to empowering communities and their residents with broadband and related technologies to improve basic digital skills.
Through a partnership with AT&T, the national nonprofit has developed in-person and virtual digital literacy and skills training workshops that are being offered across the country.
One area that was in great need of digital skills training was the East Texas town of Longview. In January, CN, AT&T, and the Greater Longview United Way collaborated to bring a free workshop to local residents.
For 75 years, Greater Longview United Way has been an integral part of Longview and beyond, working diligently to support organizations that directly meet community needs in the areas of education, financial stability, and health.
“When we had conversations with local leaders, we came to the understanding that technology is a key piece of our economy and the workforce.” said Evan Dolive, Executive Director, Greater Longview United Way. “To improve digital inclusion in our area, we decided to partner with Connected Nation. They were a perfect fit; they have the tools, resources, educators, and leaders in digital literacy, so we do not have to start from nothing or reinvent the wheel.”
Greater Longview United Way invited CN to host one of its in-person Digital Literacy and Learning workshops at the Longview Public Library. During the training that focused on cybersecurity, participants learned how to create strong online passwords, how to protect their own personal devices, and much more. One participant, Deidre McDonald, was surprised by some of the information she learned.
“One thing I learned that shocked me, and that I have shared with everyone I know, is hitting the ‘unsubscribe’ button at the bottom of all those spam emails can be dangerous, in that it opens you up to malware,” said McDonald. “I think these skills are important for everyone to know because we have to protect ourselves.”
Topics like cybersecurity are just one of many covered the workshops offered by CN. Dolive believes that more opportunities like these can help strengthen the Longview community.
“Education is never a bad thing; the more we offer classes, training, etc., the stronger our community can be,” he said. “With certificates, training, etc. we can be a part of moving a person, family, and community forward.”
To learn more about this one-of-a-kind opportunity for you or your community, click on the links below. Related Links:
- Expanding digital literacy throughout the Lone Star State
- Community matters - How Austin Texas’ urban residents are bridging the Digital Divide together
- Using digital literacy to do more good
- Meet some of CN’s digital literacy and learning trainers
- Communities that are interested in hosting a workshop