At Community Tech Network, we specialize in creating long-term digital inclusion solutions by combining direct services with training and capacity-building for organizations.
Our unique approach ensures that underserved communities not only gain access to technology but also receive ongoing support from local organizations empowered to take the lead.
A Multilingual, Comprehensive Approach| CTN’s Digital Literacy Training
CTN delivers digital skills training in 14 languages through virtual classes (ideal for homebound or remote learners) and in-person sessions. Our services include:
- Direct services to teach community members how to use technology confidently and independently.
- Staff and volunteer training to help organizations build their own capacity to teach classes and provide digital literacy services.
This dual approach allows us to meet immediate community needs while setting organizations up for long-term success.
How CTN Helps Organizations Build Sustainable Digital Literacy Curriculums
Our goal is to help organizations transition from relying on CTN to running their own programs. Here’s how we make it happen:
When organizations don’t have the capacity to provide digital literacy training directly to their communities, they reach out to CTN to offer technology classes and tech support. In this way, immediate needs are met. Both group training and one-on-one classes are available.
Simultaneously, we help organizations develop their own digital inclusion programs by equipping staff and volunteers with:
- Online courses for technology instructors, program managers, digital navigators, and folks in specific fields like healthcare and libraries
- Multilingual technology class curricula (known for their cultural competencies and trauma-informed approaches)
- Opportunities to shadow CTN instructors for hands-on experience
- Personalized advice and coaching
- Access to other resources and tools, like intake forms and needs assessments
As organizations hire and train staff, CTN gradually transfers responsibilities, ensuring a smooth and sustainable transition.
By supporting both community members and the organizations that serve them, CTN ensures programs are viable and self-sustaining.
Who We Can Help
CTN supports organizations at every stage of their digital inclusion journey—whether they’re starting from scratch or expanding a successful program.
Organizations typically seek CTN’s help for one of three reasons:
- Recognizing gaps in digital access: They see the value of online resources but may not realize parts of their community lack the confidence or ability to access them safely.
- Lacking capacity: They understand their community’s need for digital literacy support but don’t have the staff, tools, or expertise to provide it.
- Seeking to scale or improve: They have resources and capacity but need guidance to launch new initiatives or take existing efforts to the next level.
Case Study: Sourcewise
In 2021, Sourcewise partnered with CTN to distribute devices to older adults in Gilroy in Santa Clara County.
With limited staff (just one Digital Inclusion Manager), Sourcewise relied on CTN to provide multilingual, in-person technology classes.
Over the next two years, CTN helped Sourcewise build its own capacity by providing:
- Digital navigator training
- Curriculum development
- Program management support
As Sourcewise hired bilingual staff, CTN transitioned training responsibilities to them. By 2024, Sourcewise had secured independent funding and established its Digital Connections Program as a permanent service, offering ongoing digital literacy training in Spanish, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Polish.
“CTN’s digital navigator training has given our team the basic knowledge to enhance our digital inclusion program to better serve older adults.” – Linda Phillips, Sourcewise
Case Study: Senior Coastsiders
When Senior Coastsiders’ computer lab closed during the pandemic, CTN stepped in with virtual training through its Home Connect program.
After participants received a free tablet and workbook by mail, a CTN instructor would call them to guide them through steps like turning on the device and enabling AnyDesk, a pre-installed screen-sharing technology. AnyDesk allows the trainers to see a learner’s screen without being able to control it.
This training enabled learners to perform essential tasks like scheduling telehealth appointments, ordering groceries, and staying connected with loved ones.
CTN also enrolled participants in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to access low-cost internet.
Once the lab reopened, CTN helped Senior Coastsiders transition back to in-person support, providing updated curriculum and resources. Today, Senior Coastsiders runs a self-sustaining program as part of their permanent offerings.
Case Study: Puente
Puente, a nonprofit in San Mateo County, faced challenges when it came to providing digital literacy services. While volunteers supported social services, they didn’t feel confident providing tech advice or digital literacy training.
CTN addressed these challenges by providing:
- Free devices with data plans for community members.
- One-on-one virtual technology training through the Home Connect program.
- Digital navigator training for volunteers so they could learn to help clients complete important tasks online like applying for government benefits, renewing driver’s licenses, and scheduling doctor’s appointments.
Inspired by the program’s success, Puente secured funding to hire a bilingual instructor, who was also trained by CTN. Today, Puente offers technology classes as part of its permanent services.
As the program concluded, Puente joined the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, sharing its insights and further strengthening its role in promoting digital equity.
CTN: Your Partner for Digital Equity Success
What sets CTN apart is our focus on:
- Multilingual services to meet diverse community needs.
- Sustainability by empowering organizations to lead their own programs.
- Comprehensive support through direct training, capacity building, and expert guidance.
We’re here not just to solve immediate challenges but to help you build a foundation for long-term success.
Ready to create lasting impact in your community? Fill out our inquiry form today, and a member of our team will contact you within two to three business days. Together, we can build a sustainable digital equity program.
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