With support from the Tech Matching Fund, El Centro de la Raza has expanded Wi-Fi access in its building on Beacon Hill. By strategically placing nine routers at key locations throughout the building, they now have seamless Wi-Fi coverage throughout the facility.
This has particularly benefited the 125 seniors who come to El Centro for the Senior Wellness Program. Many of these seniors are isolated due to age, mobility issues and language and cultural barriers. El Centro provides hands-on training to the seniors, who are often intimidated by new technologies and computers in general. Volunteers use Century Link Internet Basics curriculum to teach Windows basics, web browsing and using the Internet safely, accessing information online, sending and receiving e-mail, and using social media including Facebook. The seniors now have an affordable option to browse the Internet and communicate with friends and family in Latin America and Asia.
The wireless access has also supported the Comcast Digital Connectors Program for 18 youth ages 14-21, for two hours, twice a week. These workshops are on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:30-6:30 PM and support high school age youth to improve their digital literacy and close the digital divide for low-income youth of color.
For more information on the project contact Miguel Maestes at associate@elcentrodelaraza.org, (206) 957-4650.