Connect 313 Names Eight Neighborhood Technology and Resource Hubs, adding New Digital Skills Curriculum

September 4, 20240 Comments

Connect 313 Names Eight Neighborhood Technology and Resource Hubs, adding New Digital Skills Curriculum

Connect 313 is pleased to announce it has relaunched and funded eight tech hubs as
Neighborhood Technology and Resource Hubs across Detroit’s seven districts, adding a robust digital skills curriculum.

The Accenture Learning Exchange Portal, a professional development skills training
platform, will be offered at each of the Neighborhood Technology and Resource Hubs listed below. The hubs are located within established community organizations including Cody Rouge, MACC Development, Eastside Community Network, and more. (See a full list below.)

The Accenture platform is a self-paced learning module providing digital literacy and
workforce-readiness training for Detroit residents. Once residents have registered for
the training at a tech hub, they can continue the program anywhere they have access to a computer and internet. Courses include: Computer and Internet Basics, Career
Assessment, Resume Building, Healthcare Customer Service and Communications,
and other foundational online and computer basics. 

“Through these Neighborhood Technology and Resource Hubs, we are providing
Detroiters a sustainable pathway to the digital world and all the educational,
employment, and healthcare opportunities it brings,” said Tonya Adair, United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s Chief Development, Diversity and Engagement Officer. “We are proud to be a longtime collaborator, working to bridge the digital divide in Detroit and overseeing this important effort.”

United Way for Southeastern Michigan is supporting a team of community ambassadors who staff the technology hubs and help deliver the Accenture curriculum, in addition to providing classes, devices, internet access, and tech support. Combined with the City of Detroit’s nine certified tech hubs (click this link for a map), this brings the number of Detroit technology hubs to 17 locations where Detroiters can receive the access and technology support they need and deserve.

The eight Connect 313 Neighborhood Technology and Resource Hubs include:

 District 1 – Brilliant Detroit – Brightmoor: (K-12 resource) 15509 Heyden, Detroit
48223, 313-326-4966, brilliantdetroit.org/brightmoor

 District 2 – LIVE6 Alliance: 7426 W. McNichols, 48221, 313-578-0304
live6detroit.org

 District 3 – Osborn Neighborhood Alliance &; Matrix Human Services: 13560 E. McNichols 48205, 313-344-6190, liveinosborn.com

 District 4 – Eastside Community Network: 401 Connor Street, 48215, 313-571-2800, ecn-detroit.org

 District 5 – MACC Development: 7900 Mack Avenue, 48214, 313-732-9302
maccdevelopment.com

 District 5 – Bailey Park Neighborhood Development Corporation: 2617 Joseph
Campau Detroit, MI 48207, 313-414-3680, baileyparkndc.org

 District 6 – Bridging Communities: 6900 McGraw Ave, Detroit, MI 48210, 313-
361-6377, bridgingcommunities.org

 District 7- Cody Rouge: 19321 W Chicago, Detroit, MI 48228, 313-397-9280
codyrouge.org

“At Brilliant Detroit, two of the principles that guide our work are meeting people where they are and providing them with the tools and support needed to achieve their dreams,” said Cindy Eggleton, Brilliant Detroit’s co-founder and CEO. “Our lives are increasingly online and not having access to a computer or the internet can be a hindrance. That is why we are so grateful to partner with Connect 313. Truly they are listening and providing what is needed.”

Connect 313 is an ongoing partnership between United Way for Southeastern Michigan, Rocket Community Fund, and the City of Detroit, with additional collaborators including Accenture, Black Tech Saturdays, and Human I-T.

Since its inception in 2020, Connect 313 has served more than 29,000 residents
through its network of tech hubs, providing 352 workstations with broadband internet and high-quality devices across Detroit’s seven districts. As a result of these efforts and more, Detroit has grown from being the least connected city in 2020 to a city with a nationally recognized digital inclusion model that’s making an impact.

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Meet Myla Chapman, your Connect 313 District 4 Community Ambassador

March 22, 20240 Comments

Meet Myla Chapman, your Connect 313 District 4 Community Ambassador

Myla’s neighborhood home base is at the Eastside Community Network (ECN), which has served Detroit’s eastside since 1984 and driven positive transformation among that community’s residents and businesses. Formerly the Warren Conner Development Coalition, the people at ECN have worked tirelessly to develop programs and resources that center the needs of eastside residents and amplify their voices to drive development within their communities. You can find Myla and the ECN at 4401 Conner Street, Detroit, 48215 or by visiting ecn-detroit.org.

Read on to learn more about Myla, your District 4 Community Ambassador.

C313: Tell us about District 4 and what makes it special?

It’s a well-kept secret that District 4 is vibrant and resilient. Residents are welcoming and provide the warmest hospitality while appreciating their fun.

C313: How do you describe your work with Connect 313 to your family and friends?

I tell folks in my family and the community that as a Connect 313 Community Ambassador, my role is to advocate for Detroit residents by bringing them accessible and affordable digital resources and technical support. I stay updated on the latest technology and help district residents achieve digital literacy, find appropriate devices and learn how they can empower themselves through technology.

C313: Why do you love being a community ambassador?

I enjoy the different cultures and environments in District 4 and collaborating with organizations and community residents there. My role offers a unique perspective because I’m a Detroit resident on the westside advocating for the eastside while representing my city. Being a Community Ambassador allows me to be adaptable, spontaneous, independent and innovative while meeting people where they are.

C313: Tell us one surprising fact about yourself?

I was born on Friday the 13th at Henry Ford Hospital, and my birthday in 2024 falls on Friday, December 13, the month I was born.

C313: Favorite thing about Detroit?

My favorite thing about Detroit is the people. We are resilient and stylish, and get the job done with flair and grace. Also, I love Belle Isle, which is one of my favorite places. It’s unique, peaceful and serene and brings Detroiters together to have a good time and engage as a community.

 

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David Luea: An integral contributor of a transformative initiative

November 6, 20230 Comments

David Luea: An integral contributor of a transformative initiative

As Connect 313’s Digital Inclusion Initiative Project Manager, David Luea always stays busy.

“From the Community Ambassador program to the Neighborhood Tech Hubs, I am responsible for organizing and contributing to the development of digital equity impact projects in Detroit for Connect 313,” David says. “My job is to help develop and assess program strengths and identify areas for improvement.”

David joined Connect 313 in 2021. Since then, he’s supported the launch of 17 Neighborhood Tech Hubs, helped develop Connect 313’s Community Ambassador program, overseen more than $300,000 in committee-funded programs, and witnessed 100,000 Detroiters sign up for low-cost internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program.

“I’m proud to be an agent of change for Detroiters, and I love working alongside dedicated teams to bridge the gap between technology haves and have-nots,” he says. “The ability to witness the positive transformation of individuals and communities, while fostering collaboration and embracing innovation, makes this role both fulfilling and impactful.”

David graduated from Ferris State University in 2008 with a focus on advertising, marketing, and business. At Connect 313, he works closely with the marketing department to promote programs and community partner events.

“The most rewarding aspect of this role is being able to contribute to such an important and transformative initiative,” says David.

His work is making a difference. Connect 313 has helped close Detroit’s digital equity gap. In 2020, 40 percent of Detroiters were digitally included. This year, the number is closer to 70 percent.

“I hope to see a future in digital equity where universal high-speed internet access is a reality and underserved communities have equitable access to devices and digital literacy programing,” David says. “If Connect 313 continues to amplify our collaborative partnerships and collective efforts, I believe we will see 100 percent of Detroiters being fully digitally included, sooner rather than later.”

 

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Steven Henry

Steven Henry Takes on New Role as Manager of Connect 313’s Community Ambassador Program

January 4, 20230 Comments

Steven Henry Takes on New Role as Manager of Connect 313’s Community Ambassador Program

 

Throughout his career as a community advocate and grassroots organizer, Steven Henry has worked to build trust and engagement with Detroit residents. Affable and articulate, Henry will now bring his innate communication skills and programming acumen to his new role as manager of Connect 313’s community ambassador program. 

Deeply rooted in the city, Henry, who holds a master’s degree in social justice from Marygrove College in Detroit, is rolling-up his sleeves and getting to work doing what he’s passionate about and dedicated to: building digital equity across the neighborhoods of Detroit.

“I live and breathe Detroit,” Henry said. “And COVID 19 exposed all the negative consequences to residents who are not fully connected in the 21st century. In my experience at the Osborn Neighborhood Alliance (ONA), I found homes without high-speed internet, and people without the appropriate devices not able to access healthcare, education, and work during lockdowns. These folks are disadvantaged and that has to change.”

Communities often have more agency than they think, Henry says, and there are options and resources to be leveraged. He believes that’s where Connect 313’s community ambassadors can be most effective. 

In his new role, he plans to build visibility for each ambassador within his or her designated district through participation in community events, neighborhood fairs and within existing outreach services. The challenge and the reward, he says, is educating ambassadors new to grassroots organizing.

“My goal as manager is to grow the team’s skills and knowledge and elevate the ambassador function to a higher level as we more fully flesh-out this program,” he explains. “We’ll take what we’ve learned and move to greater things while expanding our reach to deliver more resources.”

Along the way, Henry will continue building on the trust Connect 313 and its partners have earned among Detroiters while working on greater buy-in from the public he serves. 

“That makes the difference,” Henry said. “And that’s what Connect 313 is all about – how the community ambassadors will effectively carry out the organization’s mission of a fully digitally inclusive city.”

He fondly recalls the first computer classes offered at the Osborn Neighborhood Alliance, which also serves as a Connect 313 Tech Hub and is where Henry served as an early community ambassador. 

“Initially, there were just one or two people participating. But as we spread the word, more and more students engaged. Today, classes are typically full and there is sometimes a waiting list,” Henry said.

He credits ONA’s success to both programming quality and consistency, along with responsiveness to the community’s needs.   

Henry’s first brush with community outreach was in the healthcare field, where he collaborated with a variety of organizations focused on wellness initiatives. 

“I quickly learned the value of visibility and transparency when engaging fellow city residents,” Henry explained. “It’s essential to build trust and deliver on promises among people who are often underserved and, sometimes, under-delivered to.”

Now, as Henry marshals a team of ambassadors across each of the city’s seven districts, he’ll be striving to link Detroiters to available digital resources while demonstrating to participants the power of advocating for themselves. 

“With oversight of the entire city, I will be working to create this wingspan of inclusive options across all of Detroit’s districts,” he says. “I see the community ambassador role as a key element of Connect 313’s mission to bridge the digital divide.”

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Autumn Evans

Autumn Evans is the Detroit Native Helping to Lead Connect 313

December 15, 20220 Comments

Autumn Evans is the Detroit Native Helping to Lead Connect 313

As Detroit’s Deputy Director of Digital Inclusion and Connect 313’s Operations Director, Autumn Evans is on the front lines of ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide in Detroit. And she’s making an impact and helping to change the course of history in the city where she was born and raised.

“Being a native Detroiter brings value to the work that we do,” Autumn says. “To see Detroit go from being the least connected city in the country to being the lighthouse for digital inclusion work, I think that only happens when you are pushing to be innovative and think outside of the box to solve problems experienced by family and friends.”

In 2020, Autumn was helping Focus:HOPE connect homebound and low-income seniors to devices and services and that’s when she got a firsthand look at the impact of the digital divide. Not long after, she began working for the city and helping to lead the data-driven digital inclusion effort that is Connect 313.

In her role, she works tirelessly to ensure processes are developed and followed, strategic partnerships are formed, knowledge and information is shared, and that Connect 313 reaches its goals and continues to evolve.

“I’m very proud of our ability to execute at a high level and bring to life scalable solutions and operations that can help bridge the digital divide,” Autumn says. “I believe the framework can be used to tackle other big issues such as food insecurity or the way the criminal justice system interacts with the community.”

Connect 313’s structure is a proven success. This summer, 17 new tech hubs were funded, bringing the total to 22 citywide. A number of sites received free devices thanks to a partnership with DELL Technologies. Autumn also works to ensure Detroiters have a voice in policy – assisting with the creation of a community organizing model that gives residents a greater say in the digital decisions being made.

“Having that resident-first lens as a city has made Connect 313 high value to the work that we’re doing,” Autumn says. “These big issues are not something a government entity can solve by itself; it takes all of us working together and setting common goals and turning our values into action to see change and make all of our efforts worthwhile.”

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Meet Jennifer Jambor, An Amazing Human From human I-T

November 22, 20220 Comments

Meet Jennifer Jambor, An Amazing Human From human I-T

Succeeding in today’s high-tech world starts with the very basics – a device, internet access, and the proper skills needed to use these digital tools. Jennifer Jambor with human I-T has seen firsthand the difference it can make to get affordable computers into the hands of Detroiters in need.

“I’ve been in front of families that have literally been in tears and told me, ‘We’ve never had a device before,’” she says. “We are truly giving them the opportunity to achieve goals and change the trajectory of where their family will end up.” 

Jennifer manages the Devices & Connectivity committee at Connect 313. It’s a natural extension of her job as Senior Manager of Partnerships and Impact at human-I-T, an organization that provides devices, internet access, digital skills training and tech support in Detroit and other communities struggling to bridge the digital divide. They also empower businesses and organizations to donate devices, diverting technology waste from landfills.

“We believe access to technology is a right, not a privilege,” Jambor explained. “It’s what allows people to study remotely, apply for jobs, attend telehealth appointments, connect with distant family members, or explore new ideas and perspectives. In order to shrink the digital divide, we make it easy for our partners to do good together.”

One of the original and most impactful projects has been the Connected Futures Program, a multi-organizational mission that supplied 51,000 students with tablets, hot spots, and tech support. “When we think about the impact that program made during a critical time for students learning in the City of Detroit, that feels really good,” Jennifer says.

Since opening in Detroit in August 2020, human I-T has:

  • Created 28 jobs at its Focus:HOPE facility; 14 held by Detroit residents
  • Distributed 14,042 laptops and tablets (in addition to the 51,000 mentioned above)
  • Connected 2,756 households to high-speed, low-cost internet
  • Distributed more than 1,000 WIFI hotspots
  • Handled 17,750 tech support calls for DPSCD students
  • Processed more than 1 million pounds of e-waste

“All those initiatives are a perfect example of how when you bring the right people together into a room and you’re all collaborating around the same mission and vision, a significant impact can be made, and we’re able to see that,” Jennifer says.

And there’s more to come. Human-I-T plans to launch its first retail store in Detroit in 2023 that will give people the opportunity to learn more about the types of technology available, buy low-cost devices, take part in training, and ultimately feel supported every step of the way.

How to get a computer now

Residents of Detroit who would like access to low-cost computers, laptops, and tablets, or help getting reduced-rate broadband internet, or tech support or training can call 888-391-7249 or visit Human-I-T.org

How to donate an unneeded computer

Detroit businesses can take advantage of the partnership with human-I-T to recycle and donate technology that they no longer need. With a simple phone call, donors can access human-I-T’s industry-leading IT asset disposition services. human-I-T will arrange an equipment pickup, securely wipe devices of sensitive data, refurbish, and update them, and donate them to local community organizations and individuals who lack access to technology. Damaged or broken items are also accepted for end-of-life product disposal. All donations are tax deductible.

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How A Community Suggestion to Connect 313 Launched a Summer Tech Camp for Kids

August 22, 20220 Comments

How A Community Suggestion to Connect 313 Launched a Summer Tech Camp for Kids

When people think about Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch, video gaming immediately comes to mind. But, these days, gaming can be more than a hobby – it can lead to a lucrative career. That’s why Osborn Neighborhood Alliance Community Ambassador Steven Henry, a self-described ‘tech geek,’ submitted a proposal to Connect 313 for a two-week technology and gaming camp. Connect 313 provided a grant to bring the summer camp experience to life for more than two dozen Detroit-area students ages 8-17.

“Connect 313 has been an open book because they’ve always said, if you have a project or something you’re interested in, submit a proposal,” Steven says. “Ultimately, what I want (the kids) to learn about is gaming and the profession, as well as gaining an understanding about themselves, their goals, and the skills needed to achieve their dreams.”

The camp is currently underway (August 15-26) at the Matrix Center on McNichols, led by the Philadelphia-based group Nerd Street Gamers, a video game company that brings electronic sports, or esports, to communities across the country.

“We love working with kids,” says Ben Beaver, Senior Manager of Youth Camps and Programming at Nerd Street Gamers. “We want them to know that gaming and technology can pay you and it can pay well and it can open doors that otherwise wouldn’t be there. You can get into college through scholarships, which is still growing, but we want them to understand those opportunities exist.”

At the camp, students don’t just play video games, they learn how to build them. They’re also learning about the digital divide, how to bridge the gap, build relationships, and set goals.

“We did an activity earlier today asking them what they want to be when they grow up, so we had them write these things on an index card: How much do they want to make? Where do they see themselves in a few years? Where is some place they want to go in the near future?” Steven explained. “Those things help you to hone in on what their goals are, and we can work on those goals.”

Steven hopes the camp sparks newfound excitement for the endless opportunities a career in the tech world holds – opportunities Detroit students can take advantage of with the tools, skills, training, and access Connect 313 helps to provide. Have a great suggestion? Visit: https://connect313.org/suggestions/ and tell us more!

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Jordan Falby on Connect 313’s Grassroots Approach

August 22, 20220 Comments

Jordan Falby on Connect 313’s Grassroots Approach

Jordan Falby is a self-described “jack-of-all trades,” crafting grant agreements, offering technical assistance, collecting reports, and sharing metrics and information with the Connect 313 collaborative.

She is Connect 313’s Structure & Operations Program Manager, which pairs well with her role at United Way for Southeastern Michigan where she’s the Manager for Collective Impact & Digital Inclusion.

“The core mission of Connect 313 has always been driven by meeting people where they are now, listening to what actual Detroiters say, trying to do our best to align resources with what people actually need, and really trying to understand a layer deeper,” Jordan says.

One of her favorite aspects of Connect 313 is the grassroots approach that’s taken to get people the resources they truly need.

“Even though it’s harder to do it this way, we do not want to just come in and dictate,” Jordan says.

Each month Connect 313 holds meetings that anyone who lives, works, or learns in the City of Detroit can attend. At the meetings, people give feedback, are involved in the decision-making process, and discover local programs and services.

“We invite folks to come and give constructive criticism on any idea we’re looking to implement,” Jordan says.

An exciting pilot project helping to bridge the digital divide is the effort to begin building a high-speed fiber optic infrastructure in HOPE Village. Jordan hopes to see the publicly owned, privately-operated network expand throughout the city.

“A lot of the struggle for many people is you can get a device, but if you can’t afford to consistently have access to the internet in your home, so the device’s capabilities are limited,” she says. “By building this infrastructure we’ll be able to achieve more reliable, affordable service for Detroiters.”

To reach Jordan, email jordan@connect313.org.

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Qumisha Goss is Building Connect 313’s Digital Literacy Playbook

August 1, 20220 Comments

Qumisha Goss is Building Connect 313’s Digital Literacy Playbook

If you’re wondering how these blog posts get on Connect 313’s website, Qumisha Goss is the person who makes it happen. Qumisha is Connect 313’s Digital Literacy Subject Matter Expert and the Management Lead of the Digital Literacy and Skilling Committee.

Before joining Connect 313, Qumisha was a librarian at the Detroit Public Library Parkman branch where she created and ran information and digital literacy programming for the community. Now, she is working hard to create resources for people interested in digital literacy training, including building Connect 313’s Digital Literacy Playbook.

“The Digital Literacy Playbook will include a digital literacy curriculum, and user guides to help people get started with finding a device or internet service and get started with video calling,” she explains. “It will also include user tips for learners, educators, and organizations to help them utilize the playbook.”

Watch our website and social media channels for more details on the playbook soon.

Qumisha was motivated to help bridge the digital divide in part because she loves Detroiters and is passionate about setting them up for success in the digital world.

“Detroiters are resilient and hardworking and its always amazing to see how people make a way for themselves, even with limited funds and resources,” she says. “Learning people’s stories really makes me feel passionately about helping them to demystify technology so they can continue to do great things. Technology is just a tool, and it should feel helpful and not like a burden to people.”

“The work of bridging the digital divide has been and continues to be done by several grassroots initiatives and local organizations and churches throughout the city,” Qumisha adds. “At Connect 313, we want to be a convener and unifier of those different entities so that we can quickly and efficiently bridge the digital divide together.”

As Qumisha works with the team to build new tools and resources for residents, says she would love to see Connect 313 model replicated in other places.

“It’s rare that we have an opportunity for the suggestions and needs of everyday citizens to be supported by the knowledge and financial backing of experts and philanthropist,” she says. “It really is a dynamic relationship.”

To contact Qumisha, email qumisha@connect313.org.

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Total Health Care Check Presentation

Total Health Care Foundation awards $150,000 to benefit Connect 313

July 27, 20220 Comments

Total Health Care Foundation awards $150,000 to benefit Connect 313

On a crisp, clear afternoon at the Detroit Golf Club, the Total Health Care Foundation awarded the Rocket Giving Fund a $150,000 grant to benefit Connect 313, a collaborative organization that aims to close Detroit’s digital divide. The check presentation took place at the AREA 313 Celebrity Scramble on Tuesday, July 26, part of the activities leading up to the Rocket Mortgage Classic.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 40% of Detroit homes were without broadband internet access. In a 2019 survey by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, Detroit ranked as the least connected large city (more than 100,000 households) in the country. Priority Health is committed to taking steps to improve health equity across Michigan by addressing factors including social determinants of health such as lack of technology, digital access, digital literacy and educational training.

“The inability to access the internet has been identified as a ‘super determinant’ of health and can have a significant, long-lasting impact on people’s well-being. The Rocket Community Fund and Connect 313 are helping shine a light on this critical issue that often impacts our most vulnerable citizens,” said Shannon Wilson, executive director of the Total Health Care Foundation and vice president of Population Health & Health Equity at Priority Health. “Along with other dedicated community partners, Priority Health and the Total Health Care Foundation are committed to ensuring that all people have access to the resources they need to live their healthiest and most prosperous lives.”

The Rocket Giving Fund, the nonprofit that administers the Rocket Mortgage Classic, works closely alongside Connect 313 partners Microsoft, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, Rocket Mortgage, and City of Detroit, with the goal of ensuring every Detroiter has access to the internet, technology and digital literacy programming within a 10-minute walk of their home.

“On behalf of our dedicated Connect 313 partners, we are grateful for Priority Health’s commitment to Detroit residents through their generous donation in support of critical digital inclusion efforts,” said Laura Grannemann, Rocket Giving Fund board member. “This commitment will help build neighborhood tech hubs, provide residents with technological devices and support digital literacy programming that ensures Detroit residents are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in our digital-first world.”

Formed as part of the merger agreement between Priority Health and Total Health Care, the Total Health Care Foundation has committed to providing millions of dollars in grants over the next few years. To date, more than $8 million in grants have been distributed to organizations throughout Detroit and Southeast Michigan.

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