COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF BALTIMORE COUNTY LAUNCHES DIGITAL NAVIGATOR PROGRAM TO DRIVE INTERNET ADOPTION, SUPPORTED BY $150,000 COMCAST GRANT
- Comcast and CCBC launch Digital Navigator program to connect Baltimore residents to the Internet, teach digital skills. The program is supported by a $150,000 grant from Comcast. Digital Navigators will address barriers to getting online, such as affordability and access to devices. The program aims to close the digital divide and reduce socioeconomic inequalities.
- None.
Partnership Trains CCBC Students to Help Drive Awareness and Adoption of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)and Build Digital Skills
The CCBC Digital Navigators will focus on addressing barriers households face to getting online – namely affordability, access to devices, and digital skills. Digital Navigators are trained to educate residents – including the thousands of CCBC students returning to campus this fall in need of high-speed Internet for schoolwork and job searches – about resources available to overcome these obstacles.
In addition, Comcast is offering exclusive Internet deals and spreading the word about eligibility for the federal government's Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides qualifying individuals with a
"We thank Comcast for their continued investment in our community and their commitment to driving innovative approaches to bridging the digital divide," said Dr. Sandra L. Kurtinitis, President of the
The Digital Navigator model is a highly effective and research-driven approach that engages trusted community organizations to address the root causes of the digital divide – including access to the Internet, technology, and digital skills – the essential foundations for broadband adoption. A recent study from the Boston Consulting Group surveyed more than 1,500 people nationwide who used Digital Navigator services and revealed the critical role Digital Navigators play in closing the digital divide and reducing socioeconomic inequalities. Key takeaways include:
- More than
65% of survey respondents said they obtained Internet access or a computer or tablet at home; among Hispanic and Black Americans, this increased to72% . - More than
85% of all respondents said they used the Internet more frequently. - Almost half surveyed obtained better healthcare, and
40% received support with basic needs like food, rent, and housing. - 1 in 3 found a new job or earned a higher income.
"Closing the digital divide in
Comcast is deeply committed to advancing digital equity in the communities it serves. The company's community partnerships in
"Comcast is proud to partner with CCBC to empower members of its student body to get more Baltimoreans connected to the Internet," said Michael Parker, Senior Vice President for Comcast's Beltway Region. "Deep partnerships are needed to ensure we are reaching and connecting those in need, and that's why collaborating with CCBC is so critical as we work to accelerate digital access and adoption."
The CCBC Digital Navigator program – which is part of Project UP, Comcast's
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
About the
Since 1957, CCBC has opened the doors to accessible, affordable, high-quality education empowering generations of area residents to transform their lives and the lives of others. Each year, nearly 50,000 students enroll at the college's main campuses, extension centers and online to make their starts, earn degrees, launch and build careers. CCBC offers the region's most expansive selection of degree, certificate and workplace certification programs that prepare students for transfer, job entry and career advancement in such industries as business, education, health care, information technology, cybersecurity, construction, and transportation. Designated as the "Best Community College" among the Maryland Daily Record's 2022 Reader Rankings, CCBC is also nationally recognized as a leader in innovative learning strategies and among the nation's top associate degree producers. CCBC. The incredible value of education.
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SOURCE Comcast
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