At CAP Utah, we know that access to technology is essential in today’s world. From education and employment to healthcare and connection, the internet and digital tools are lifelines. Yet for many Utahns, the digital divide remains a significant barrier to achieving economic stability and opportunity. That’s why we are thrilled to share our progress in a new initiative made possible through the NTEN Digital Inclusion Fellowship.
The NTEN fellowship is a national program that empowers organizations to address digital access and inclusion in their communities. Through this opportunity, we have been able to advance initiatives that provide underserved Utahns with the tools, resources, and training they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
This important work is being led by our AmeriCorps VISTA, James Blaker, who was selected as an NTEN Digital Inclusion Fellow earlier this year. Under this fellowship, we are collaborating with five network partners across the state to expand digital access resources and strengthen opportunities for individuals and families.
What We’ve Accomplished So Far
Thanks to the NTEN fellowship and the incredible dedication of our team, here’s what we’ve been able to achieve so far:
- Developing Digital Skills Training: We worked with partners to create a curriculum to teach essential digital skills, such as typing, navigating the internet, using basic office tools, applying for jobs online, etc. These classes are designed to empower participants with the knowledge they need for employment, education, and personal growth.
- Preparing for Laptop Distribution: Recognizing the critical need for access to technology, we are working with Tech Charities toward a laptop distribution initiative. This effort will provide community members with the devices they need to participate in training programs, apply for jobs, and access online resources.
- Strengthening Partnerships with CAP Utah Network Agencies: We’ve partnered with five CAP Utah network agencies to extend the reach of this initiative, ensuring communities across the state can benefit from these resources.
- Increasing Awareness: Through local outreach efforts and social media, we are spreading the word about the importance of digital inclusion.
- Coordinating with a Statewide EcoSystem: Participating in the Utah Digital Opportunities Network (UDON) and the Utah Broadband Center to ensure that efforts are coordinated with other amazing partners. Collectively, the NTEN fellowship works towards sustaining the goals and supporting an ecosystem that is outlined in Utah’s Digital Access Plan.
What’s Next
Our work is far from finished. We remain committed to expanding this initiative and creating lasting change in our communities. Upcoming plans include:
- Implementing Training Programs: Our curriculum is developed, but there’s still a lot of work to be done to finish and launch our training programs next year!
- Deepening Community Engagement: We’ve set a goal to engage more families and individuals across Utah in 2025, hopefully impacting 200 individuals, ensuring those who could benefit most from these services know how to access them.
- Growing Partnerships: By collaborating with charities and other organizations, we aim to increase access to donated and refurbished laptops to support even more Utahns.
Why Digital Access Matters
Digital access is more than just an internet connection or a laptop—it’s a key to opportunity. Whether it’s helping a student complete their homework, enabling a job seeker to land a position, or connecting a family to vital healthcare services, digital inclusion changes lives.
We see this initiative as part of our larger mission to end poverty and empower Utahns. By ensuring digital access for all, we’re removing barriers and building stronger, more equitable communities.
How You Can Help
You can join us in bridging the digital divide and creating opportunities for all:
- Spread the Word: Share this initiative with your community by sharing this blog post and this reel.
- Donate Technology: Once launched, we will have places you can donate your old tech to help provide more devices for those in need. Information for how to donate to Tech Charities can be found here.
- Volunteer: Volunteer at your local community action agency and watch for when we launch our program and what volunteer opportunities will be available then!
Together, we can make digital access a reality for every Utahn.
