Washington Literacy Center Receives Renewed Commitment

Washington Literacy Center (WLC) will expand its Digital Literacy for the Workplace program, thanks to Crown Castle extending its Connected by Good partnership to provide training for a second year.

The 10-week course is an in-person and online learning experience that helps Washingtonians improve introductory computer and digital skills and participate in the digital economy. Topics range from Google and Microsoft tools for the workplace to maintaining a secure online presence.

Crown Castle’s current support helped over 60 adults complete the training, and WLC aims to match or exceed that number with the renewal grant. Successful graduates include Patricia Bellamy, who at first didn't feel comfortable using computers. After completing Computer Basics and Internet Basics, using the Internet to easily access information is part of her everyday lifeAnother alum is Tiffany Thomas, who says the program taught her how much she had to learn about how computers work. She’s currently in the process of looking for a better job to put her new skills to use.

“Testimonials from students such as Patricia and Tiffany show that we’re making a difference by training Washingtonians for 21st century jobs and careers available right now,” says WLC President and CEO Jimmie Williams. “As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we thank Crown Castle for its leading role as a corporate partner and its recognition that low literacy skills, including a lack of experience navigating digital tools, are a stumbling block to success.” Williams adds that one in four D.C. residents, ages 16 to 74, read at or below the first-grade level.

Ashley Greenspan, Crown Castle external affairs manager for Washington, D.C., says, “We continue to be inspired by the graduates of the Digital Literacy for the Workplace program. Their successes and the Washington Literacy Program’s ongoing excellence are the reasons why we decided to continue this support. As we focus on expanding the District’s broadband infrastructure, we’re proud to deepen our role in helping prepare people for the jobs that await them in the increasingly digital economy.”

Last fall, WLC held a Digital Literacy Roundtable exploring this critical link between connectivity, digital literacy and economic empowerment and published a white paper summarizing key recommendations. Zachary Parker, now serving as Ward 5 Councilmember, encapsulated these insights during the discussion: “Strengthening access allows us to reach everyone and reduce the stigma for those who are not digitally literate.”