Digital Access For All Initiative

The Lilly Family School of Philanthropy sends its undergraduate and graduate students to volunteer with the Patterson Foundation in Sarasota, Florida over Spring Break. Its approach to philanthropy works beyond traditional geographic boundaries, tapping into expansive networks and movements working toward the shared aspirations of the community. I was tasked with working on one of their initiatives, Digital Access For All (#DA4A), which aims to provide families with resources to have affordable internet and access to devices.

ACP Enrollment Event

The ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) Enrollment Event was hosted at Betty J Johnson library in Sarasota, Florida where community members could obtain assistance from a digital navigator in signing up for low-cost internet and devices. This event attracted ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed) families, who have been impacted severely by the COVID-19 pandemic digital equity gap was exposure.

#DA4A Team Photo

My classmate, Emily Crump, and I took a final photo with our initiative team leaders. They guided us in being community advocates by promoting digital access for all people. This photo captured a bittersweet moment.

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My Blog Post on the Patterson Foundation

On April 7, 2023 my blog post was shared on the Patterson Foundation website. I expressed how my heart was touched by the digital equity work and I was educated on its importance through a life-changing conversation.

Click on this link to read my blog post titled, Digital Equity is Essential and Transformational: My Experience with the Digital Access For All Initiative.