Residents of Cabarrus, Gaston, and Union counties can expect to see a significant boost in digital equity, thanks to a newly announced initiative. The Center for Digital Equity at Queens University of Charlotte (CDE) revealed that it will be expanding its Digital Navigator service into these communities, with funding support from the State of North Carolina through the Digital Equity Champion Grant. According to a post on Gaston County's official website, this move aims to provide crucial digital resources and to fortify local efforts for increased digital accessibility.
As part of the launch celebrations, CDE is organizing an in-person event where attendees will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the organization. They will also receive information about the grant that is enabling them to quickly expand their digital navigator services. Additionally, participants will engage in an interactive activity designed to pinpoint further partners and initiatives in local digital skilling. This initiative underlines the ongoing commitment to bridge the digital divide in communities that have been historically underserved.
Amid rising concerns about the digital divide, especially in the wake of pandemic-accelerated shifts to online platforms for education, employment, and healthcare, programs like CDE's Digital Navigator are gaining prominence. These navigators act as guides, assisting individuals to confidently navigate through digital landscapes, whether it's securing reliable internet access, acquiring digital devices, or developing the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy.
The upcoming kickoff event is not just an introduction to the expanded services; it's an invitation for locals to play a proactive role in shaping digital literacy in their neighborhoods. By encouraging community participation, CDE hopes to ensure that the Digital Navigator services are tailored effectively to meet the specific needs of each county. This growth is a critical step in ensuring that residents can to smoothly adapt to a world that's becoming increasingly reliant on digital competence.
For those interested in attending the kickoff or learning more about the digital services coming to their area, more details can be found through the information posted on Gaston County's website.
