Raleigh City Council has taken an exciting step to improve access to technology. They approved a $300,000 grant from the North Carolina Department of Information Technology. This money will be used to grow the Raleigh Digital Ambassadors Program, which aims to make sure everyone has the tools to use technology.
The Digital Ambassadors Program gives local youth the chance to help others in the community learn about technology. The program has been growing quickly, doubling in size in less than a year. With this growth, more people in Raleigh will have access to digital skills training and devices.
Here’s what the grant will do:
- More Leadership Experiences: Youth in this program will have more opportunities to develop and lead in the community.
- More Services: Advice About Your Device (AAYD) sessions will grow, allowing more one-on-one support for people as they learn how to use technology and achieve their digital goals.
- Mobile Distribution: More devices will be given to residents to help them get online.
- New Programs: The "Learn & Earn" classes will grow, which offers valuable digital skills and a laptop when the course is completed.
- Community Tech Support: New Community Tech Check will provide free or low-cost help with tech problems.
“We are thrilled to be able to accept the grant! The community along with our students will benefit greatly as the digital economy is changing more and more every day,” says Digital Inclusion Program Manager, Yanira Campos.
This grant will help make sure everyone in Raleigh has the tools and skills they need to use technology in today’s world.