Digital Impact Programs

The Digital Impact Unit provides community-based opportunities that use technology as a catalyst to foster creativity and improve the quality of life for citizens of Raleigh. Through a wide range of programs and initiatives, the unit has trained more than 3,800 residents in digital literacy efforts, provided more than 1,000 computers to residents, and collectively completed more than 10,000 hours of volunteer service.

Application and Interest Form

Applications for the Fall 2026 Raleigh Digital Connectors Program has not yet opened. Complete our Digital Connectors Interest Form to be notified when applications open and be amongst the first to apply. Enrollment is limited to 15 participants per cohort and will close once capacity has been reached.

Raleigh Digital Connectors

The mission of the Raleigh Digital Connectors aims to cultivate the next generation of digital leaders by providing education about digital impact, leadership development, and service-learning opportunities to high school youth.

The Raleigh Digital Connectors Program is known for the immense impact that it has on both the city and students within our community here in Raleigh.

Program Details

This program empowers youth through leadership and service while working to bridge the digital divide in the Raleigh community.

Program Requirements	Program Goals	Program Benefits	Program Components	Applicant Requirements
Participation over multiple months 10 hours of Service Attend weekly meetings No more than four unexcused absences permitted	Increase knowledge of the digital divide Explain different methods to bridge the digital divide Describe careers related to technology	Stipend Leadership Development Career Exploration Service Hours Free laptop upon program completion	60% Leadership Development 20% Professional Development 20% Service Learning	Must be a 9-12th Grade Student Must live in the City of Raleigh

Raleigh Digital Ambassadors

The Digital Ambassadors Program is a continuation of the Digital Connectors Program. The mission of the Raleigh Digital Ambassadors is to expand and increase digital services to the City of Raleigh residents through service-learning and community engagement.

Program Details

Program Requirements

Program Goals

Program Benefits

Program Components

Applicant Requirements

10 - month commitment
45 hours of Service
Attend monthly in-person & virtual meetings
Complete 2-3 service events a month
No more than 4 unexcused absences permitted

To engage in critical reflection through service learning
To apply leadership skills in a community setting
To build relationships with community members

Stipend
Service Hours
Leadership Development
Professional Development

10% Leadership Development
10% Professional Development
80% Service Learning

Must be a 9-12th Grade Student
Must live in the City of Raleigh
Must be an Alumni of the Digital Connectors

Projects

Digital Ambassadors have the opportunity to spearhead various service initiatives aimed at benefiting the residents of Raleigh. These projects encompass a wide range of activities tailored to meet the different needs of our community. From providing invaluable advice on device usage through events like Advice about your Device, to facilitating the distribution of mobile computers to low-income families, and even hosting engaging tech events like the Geek-a-thon, their efforts are dedicated to enhancing digital literacy and accessibility for all.

Need help with technology? Get Advice About Your Device!

The City of Raleigh is partnering with StepUp Ministries to offer Advice About Your Device Drop-In Hours. Whether you have a short question about how to work your device or have long-term digital goals, attend our drop-in hours to learn more. There is no registration required for this FREE resource.

You will be paired up with a Digital Ambassador to create a plan to best support your needs and tackle goals together in a 1:1 setting. Whether you need help with your phone, computer, or have other digital goals, we have you covered!

View the locations, dates and times below.

Date	Time	Location	Address
Jan. 17, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Green Road Community Center	4201 Green Rd.
Feb. 7, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Raleigh Pathways Center	900 S. Wilmington St.
Feb. 21, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Green Road Community Center	4201 Green Rd.
Feb. 28, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Sanderford Community Center	2623 Sanderford Rd.
Mar. 7, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Raleigh Pathways Center	900 S. Wilmington St.
Mar. 21, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Green Road Community Center	4201 Green Rd.
Mar. 28, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Sanderford Community Center	2623 Sanderford Rd.
Apr. 4, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Raleigh Pathways Center	900 S. Wilmington St.
Apr. 18, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Green Road Community Center	4201 Green Rd.
Apr. 25, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Sanderford Community Center	2623 Sanderford Rd.
May 2, 2026	1 - 3 p.m.	Raleigh Pathways Center	900 S. Wilmington St.
June 13, 2026	1 - 3 PM	Raleigh Pathways Center	900 S. Wilmington St.
June 27, 2026	1 - 3 PM	Sanderford Community Center	2623 Sanderford Rd.
July 11, 2026	1 - 3 PM	Green Road Community Center	4201 Green Rd.
July 25, 2026	1 - 3 PM	Sanderford Community Center	2623 Sanderford Rd.
August 8, 2026	1 - 3 PM	Green Road Community Center	4201 Green Rd.
August 22, 2026	1 - 3 PM	Sanderford Community Center	2623 Sanderford Rd.

Want to build your computer skills? Join Learn & Earn!

AAYD student helping community member with mobile device

The Community Engagement Department is partnering with the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department to offer Learn & Earn, a free program designed to help working adults strengthen their basic and intermediate computer skills. Whether you’re looking to build confidence with everyday technology or grow your digital skills to advance your career, Learn & Earn is here to support you.

Each course is taught by trained staff members, and our Digital Ambassadors are on-site to answer questions, and guide you through challenges. You’ll learn practical skills in a friendly and supportive setting.

This program is completely free, no prior experience is required, and free childcare is available for all participants.

Check back soon for dates and information on how to apply!