Washington Literacy Center Expands Digital Literacy Skills Program

A changing economy with many opportunities is motivating Washingtonians to upgrade their digital literacy skills and the Washington Literacy Center (WLC) is able to meet that demand thanks to a new grant from Crown Castle.

WLC’s Digital Literacy for the Workplace is an in-person and online learning experience to improve introductory computer and digital skills. Topics include Google and Microsoft tools for the workplace; maintaining a secure online presence; and details about digital certifications. It’s a 10-week course that meets two days each week.

Crown Castle’s Connected by Good support helps to promote access to education and technology in schools and underserved communities. Its grant to WLC will allow approximately 50 more adult students to participate.

Jimmie Williams, WLC president and CEO, says this new corporate support adds to the momentum the nonprofit is already experiencing after moving into its expanded location on 15th St., NW, in the District.

Williams says, “We’re grateful for Crown Castle’s commitment because we know low literacy skills, including a lack of experience navigating digital tools, are a stumbling block to just about everything. Crown Castle’s grant demonstrates its belief in our community and adds to its efforts to expand Washington, D.C.'s existing wireless infrastructure.”

Ashley Greenspan, Crown Castle public affairs manager, says, “Washington Literacy Center has an impressive record of helping adult learners climb hurdles by providing literacy, digital awareness, workplace writing, workforce readiness skills and more. In this digital era, obtaining these skills and adding to them is essential. As we focus on expanding the District’s wireless infrastructure, we’re glad to do our part to also help people prepare for the jobs that await them in the digital economy.”

WLC student Haregu Habte says she’s very grateful for the skills she’s learned. “I was really not familiar with Microsoft tools before I started and now I’m a pro. It’s made a difference in my life and my ability to apply for jobs with employers who need what I can bring to work.”

Next year, WLC will mark its 60th anniversary. The Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington has named WLC one of the best nonprofits in the area following a financial, program and site review.