The Enterprise Center has announced the creation of a pilot program to begin addressing the digital divide in Chattanooga.
Like all cities, Chattanooga faces a digital divide characterized by a disparity in technical literacy, hardware adoption and a reliable Internet subscription at home.
While Chattanoogans accustomed to using the Internet enjoy the very high speeds made possible by the community’s fiber optic network, there are still citizens who are unaware of the relevance that technology and connectivity can have in their lives.
As part of Mayor Andy Berke and Mayor Jim Coppinger’s retooling of the Enterprise Center, the organization has been tasked with developing programs to meet this challenge head on.
“It is essential we recognize the importance of digital inclusion in our innovation economy,” said Mayor Berke. “Ensuring digital equity translates into stronger, more connected communities and increased economic opportunity—a true competitive advantage for Chattanooga.”
Under the leadership of newly appointed President of the Enterprise Center, Ken Hays, a committee of volunteers has spent the past six months researching digital inclusion initiatives implemented in cities across the country. Tech Goes Home (TGH), a program founded in Boston by Deb Socia in 1999, quickly emerged as a proven and cost effective program.
“Tech Goes Home has an outstanding track record,” said Hays. “It has been highly effective in helping students obtain the skills, hardware, and connectivity needed for 21st century success, while also demonstrating why the Internet is relevant in our daily lives.”
Utilizing the structure and curriculum of TGH, tailored to the Chattanooga/Hamilton County area, TGH CHA will offer programs for adults, school-aged children and early childhood development.
Funded by a generous grant from the Benwood Foundation, the pilot program will provide 15 hours of training to help its participants acquire the skills to be able to access information and resources online. Upon completion of the course, participants also have the option to purchase a new Chromebook for only $50. The program also offers assistance in securing Internet service to participants’homes through one of several available options.
Scheduled to begin in February, the Tech Goes Home Chattanooga program will be piloted at six locations across the county, including: The Howard School, East Lake Academy of Fine Arts, Red Bank High School, the Eastgate Library Branch, Chattanooga’s Youth & Family Development Academy, and Second Missionary Baptist Church.
“We couldn’t be more pleased to see public and private organizations working together on this,” said Mayor Coppinger. “This is an issue that affects our entire community and addressing it will ensure the future success of Chattanooga and the Greater Hamilton County area.”
For more information, contact Kelly McCarthy, TGH CHA Program Manager at kelly@techgoeshomecha.org or (423) 488-9318.