The success of the Hope Digital Skills Program at Esperanza, Inc. 

Since 2021, the Hope Digital Skills Program at Esperanza, Inc. has been helping people in our community learn the digital skills they need to succeed in today’s world. Thanks to funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) through their Connecting Minority Communities (CMC) program, we’ve been able to offer even more services and support to families, community members, small business owners, students, staff, and seniors.

Helping people learn essential digital skills 

From June 2023 to the present, the Hope Digital Skills Program has made remarkable strides in delivering over 380 workshops and small group training to more than 1,600 participants in CareerLink and Esperanza College of Eastern University. These workshops, offered in both English and Spanish, cover a wide range of essential digital skills—from basic computer literacy and Microsoft Office to Google Workspace, Canva, and more. The diversity of courses ensures that participants, whether they are students, small business owners, or community members, are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in both their personal and professional lives. 

Our program’s ability to cater to such a diverse audience has been key to its success. By providing digital skills training in both English and Spanish, we ensure that language barriers do not stand in the way of access to technology. The Hope Digital Skills Program is deeply committed to inclusivity and works to ensure that all community members, regardless of their background or economic status, can benefit from these opportunities. 

Providing free computers and helping with internet access 

One of the biggest obstacles to learning digital skills is not having access to a computer or affordable internet. Through the program, we’ve given away over 1,100 laptops to people in our community who didn’t have their own device.  

In addition to providing laptops, we also help people find affordable internet plans. If you or your family are struggling to pay for internet, we can help you navigate the process and find low-cost options, so you can stay connected. 

Supporting small business owners and seniors 

In addition to workshops on computer skills, we’ve also held special training for small business owners in our community. For example, we recently hosted a SERV Safe workshop that helped 20 local business owners get certified in food safety, a key step in running a safe and successful business. 

For seniors, we understand that learning new technology can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help every step of the way. Our workshops and one-on-one support are designed to make the learning process as easy and comfortable as possible. 

Expanding our resources for you 

Thanks to the grant we received, we were able to assist with funding towards the new library space where people can come in to get hands-on help with their devices or participate in workshops. This space has 10 new computers, making it easier for anyone to come in and practice what they’ve learned, get assistance with technical issues, or simply have a place to use a computer if they don’t have one at home. 

We also have a tech hub where our staff can assist with any tech problems or questions. Whether you need help with your laptop, internet connection, or understanding a program you’re learning in a workshop, we’re here to support you.

Using data to improve and grow 

With the help of the NTIA grant, we’ve been able to gather feedback from our participants and better understand how to reach more people who need help. We’ve been able to advertise our services more widely, which is why you’re reading about the program right now. We want to make sure that everyone in our community has access to these resources and knows where to find them. 

What’s next for the Hope Digital Skills Program? 

Even though the NTIA funding has ended, the Hope Digital Skills Program will continue to operate and offer its services. Our mission is simple: to make sure everyone in our community can learn how to use technology confidently and have access to the tools they need to succeed. 

We are proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, and we’re excited about the future. We will continue to offer workshops, distribute laptops, and help families find affordable internet options. Our library is open and available for everyone who needs a place to get online or learn new skills.