AT&T, Human I-T Provide 100 Laptops to Computer CORE, AT&T Contributes $25,000 for Digital Skills Training
AT&T* and Human I-T provided Computer CORE 100 refurbished laptops today to distribute to Alexandria residents enrolled in a workforce-development program. AT&T also announced a $25,000 contribution to Computer CORE to help Computer CORE’s clients improve their digital skills to prepare for careers.
The announcement took place during Computer CORE’s day-long Community Celebration.
“Computer CORE is thrilled to accept these refurbished laptop computers from AT&T to give to 100 adult learners who are new to our free online digital literacy classes,” said Donna Walker James, Executive Director, Computer CORE. “This gift will positively impact each new learner as they pursue career and educational advancements which we hope will lead to quality-of-life improvements including higher wages,”
Delegate Paul Krizek attended the event, sharing his perspectives on the importance of the work of Computer CORE and the role of the public, private and nonprofit sectors working together to achieve a common goal.
“ In order for our communities to be strong and resilient, we need to equip our residents with the tools and connectivity that are so vital in our digital age. It’s great to see Computer CORE and AT&T coming together to help our friends and neighbors get the training they need to excel in school, on the job and in life,” Del. Krizek said.
Senator Scott Surovell said the project will create opportunities for people in the community.
“I’ve long recognized that we need to do whatever we can to tackle the digital divide, not just in our schools, but for everyone who needs strong technology skills to find, keep and excel at a job. I applaud Computer CORE and AT&T for teaming up on this project, which will create opportunities for more people in our community,” Surovell said.
Fairfax County Supervisor Rodney Lusk added: “The Franconia District welcomes Computer CORE and AT&T to the WISH Center. The Workforce Innovation Skills Hub is a partnership that provides services designed to help the community to develop its workforce, support business, and cultivate a thriving economy. WISH is a unique, first of its kind workforce and innovation center that helps community residents by equipping participants with job skills and supportive services that helps participants find jobs. At the WISH Center, community members can obtain the skills and certifications for in-demand employment, connect directly to employers ready to hire, and become empowered to earn a living wage.”
This effort is part of the AT&T Connected Learning® initiative to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. AT&T is committing $5 billion to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030.
“We’ve been working with organizations across Virginia to help close the digital divide by providing laptops, financial support and other tools that benefit Virginians of all ages. Computer CORE has a strong record of success, and we’re glad we can provide this support to help the people they serve,” said Garrett McGuire, regional director, AT&T External Affairs.
Learn more about AT&T’s investments across Virginia at virginia.att.com.
Learn more at att.com/connectedlearning.
About Computer CORE
Computer CORE is a 25-year old nonprofit organization working to reduce the digital divide. CORE's mission is to prepare underserved adults to realize their career and educational aspirations with foundational computer skills. Find out more at computercore.org.
*About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T
We’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and improving lives. As part of our companywide commitment to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning® to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy, and education solutions to help today’s learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008 we’ve committed to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states, Washington D.C. and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.