Launched in 2009, the Digital Inclusion Initiative (DII) demonstrates that the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) can make a major impact on an unmet national need. Coming from all walks of life, more than 20,000 older adults have crossed America’s so-called digital divide, learning computer skills thanks to their own perseverance and one-on-one coaching by fellow older adults who are SCSEP participants.
In public settings including libraries, senior centers, faith-based organizations and community action agencies, some learners use a computer mouse for the very first time. Others master more advanced skills such as document creation. Whether they are using personal computers to communicate via email with friends and family, searching the Internet for important health and financial information, or hunting for employment, our DII coaches—mature, patient and positive—are there to serve them all.
Here are the voices of some of our DII learners and coaches. Their stories inspire and remind us that we are never too old to learn and engage.
