Digital Connectors
One Economy's Digital Connectors program was launched in 2001, in Washington, D.C., and has since expanded to include more than 20 rural and urban areas nationwide. Similar programs have been launched in Ethiopia, Rwanda, Kenya, Cameroon, and Nigeria.
The Digital Connectors program identifies and trains talented youth, immersing them in certified technology training and encouraging leadership skills that prepare students to enter the 21st century workforce. These youth range from ages 14 to 21 and come from diverse backgrounds. Participants give back to their community by teaching technology skills to family members, friends, and community members for no less than eight hours of community service each week.
In addition to hands-on learning and community service work, Digital Connectors are also given the opportunity to learn about career paths through sponsored visits to technology companies, job shadowing programs, and campus tours. In return for their efforts, Digital Connectors receive new computers or stipends through their city's employment program.
Since its inception, nearly 3,000 youth have given more than 56,000 hours of community service through the Digital Connectors program. Digital Connectors have also trained over 15,000 families on how to use technology and online resources to improve the quality of their lives.
Read more about this topic: One Economy Corporation