Digital Equity Month

Overview

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Digital Equity Month, spearheaded by NCW Tech Alliance and Thriving Together NCW, is a digital inclusion campaign focused on addressing health and economic disparities aggravated by the lack of digital access and technology across North Central Washington. The initiative aims to bridge the gap in digital equity and foster digital inclusion for all members of the community. Sage Step Consulting played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and structuring the initiative, identifying key areas of digital inequity, developing strategic partnerships with local organizations to address these challenges, building relationships with key stakeholders across a four-county region and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, managing timelines and vendor contracts, and crafting extensive communications with diverse stakeholders.

Digital equity and inclusion are crucial in today's digital age, where access to technology and the internet is increasingly essential for education, healthcare, employment, and social participation. However, disparities in access and digital skills persist, disproportionately affecting underserved communities. Through initiatives like Digital Equity Month, stakeholders work collaboratively to ensure that everyone has equal opportunities to thrive in the digital world.

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‍Timeline

Digital Equity Month ran from June 2023 to October 2023, encompassing a range of activities and initiatives aimed at promoting digital inclusion and equity. During this period, various events, workshops, and outreach programs were organized to engage the community and raise awareness about digital equity issues.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the Digital Equity Month initiative were:

1. Raise Awareness about Digital Equity: Through targeted campaigns, social media engagement, and community events, the initiative aimed to educate the public about the importance of digital equity and its impact on individuals and communities. By highlighting the disparities in access to technology and digital resources, stakeholders sought to mobilize support for initiatives that promote digital inclusion.
2. Promote Digital Inclusion: Digital Equity Month focused on creating accessible digital opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, age, or location. By providing training, resources, and support, the initiative aimed to empower individuals to navigate the digital world confidently. From basic digital literacy skills to advanced technology training, Digital Equity Month offered a wide range of programs to meet the diverse needs of the community.
3. Enhance Virtual Care Practices: With the rise of telehealth and virtual care services, Digital Equity Month aimed to optimize these practices to ensure equitable access to healthcare services. By providing training for healthcare professionals and promoting the use of digital tools for remote consultations and patient education, the initiative sought to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities in healthcare access.

Approach

The approach adopted by Digital Equity Month was multifaceted and inclusive, encompassing various strategies to address the diverse needs of the community:

1. Digital Navigator Training and Materials: Community-based organization staff were trained as digital navigators to provide personalized support and assistance to individuals seeking to improve their digital skills. These digital navigators served as guides, helping individuals access online resources, navigate digital platforms, and troubleshoot technical issues.
2. Resource Guides and Videos: To promote digital literacy and provide practical guidance, Digital Equity Month developed comprehensive resource guides and instructional videos covering a wide range of topics, from basic computer skills to online safety and cybersecurity. These resources were made available online and distributed through community centers, libraries, and other local organizations.
3. Learning Labs and Outreach Programs: Interactive learning labs and outreach programs were organized to engage the community and provide hands-on training opportunities. These events, held at community centers, schools, and libraries, offered workshops, demonstrations, and interactive activities to teach digital skills and promote digital literacy. By bringing together community members of all ages and backgrounds, these programs fostered a sense of belonging and empowerment.
4. Long Range Digital Equity Planning: Recognizing the importance of long-term planning and collaboration, Digital Equity Month worked closely with the NCW Digital Access and Equity Coalition to develop sustainable strategies for addressing digital equity issues. Through ongoing discussions, research, and community input, stakeholders identified priority areas for intervention and developed action plans to achieve measurable outcomes.

Outcomes

The initiative achieved significant outcomes, demonstrating its impact on the community and the effectiveness of its programs:

• Funding Disbursement: Over $153,000 was disbursed to community-based organizations across four counties and on the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation to support digital equity efforts. This funding supported local partners' involvement in the digital inclusion campaigns.
• Community Engagement: More than 30 community-based organizations received funding, and 12 Tech Help pop-ups were hosted at fairs and community events, reaching a diverse audience. These events provided opportunities for individuals to seek assistance with technology-related issues, access digital resources, and learn new skills in a supportive environment.
• Digital Skills Development: Over 470 individuals completed the Digital Skills Survey and interacted with Digital Navigators, while 135 Digital Navigators were trained to provide support and guidance. These efforts contributed to the development of a more digitally literate community, empowering individuals to navigate the digital world with confidence and independence.
• Language Accessibility: With a focus on inclusivity, over 80 individuals completed a Digital Literacy Skills course in Spanish, emphasizing the importance of language accessibility in digital education. By offering programs in multiple languages and culturally relevant formats, Digital Equity Month ensured that all members of the community had equal access to educational opportunities and resources. Additionally, many resources were offered in English, Spanish, Russian, and Ukrainian. ‍
• NCW Digital Access and Equity Coalition Launch: 65 people actively participated in the NCW Digital Access and Equity Coalition call, engaging in discussions and planning sessions focused on addressing digital equity issues in the North Central Washington region. This collaborative effort facilitated knowledge sharing, resource allocation, and strategic planning to advance the goals of digital inclusion and equity‍
• Creation of NCW Tech Help Website: The initiative also resulted in the creation of the NCW Tech Help website (https://www.ncwtechhelp.org/), providing a centralized online platform for accessing digital resources, information, and support services. The website offers a wide range of resources, including affordable internet options, free devices, and links to community programs, making it easier for individuals to access the help they need to navigate the digital world effectively.

‍Impact

Digital Equity Month made significant strides in enhancing digital literacy and access, particularly in underserved areas. The collaborative efforts of stakeholders, including Sage Step Consulting, played a crucial role in driving the success of the initiative and leaving a lasting impact on the community's digital landscape. By promoting digital equity and inclusion, Digital Equity Month laid the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.