Community Leaders Announce Plans with Comcast to Promote Digital Inclusion
Comcast Awards
The Rotary Club of Tallahassee Southside, the Greater Apalachee Ridges Estates Neighborhood Association,
Comcast announced it will award a
Digital Navigators are specially trained advocates who help their neighbors get online, develop digital skills and connect them to available resources.
A study by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) revealed that Digital Navigators are critical to driving digital adoption in unconnected communities and reducing socioeconomic inequalities by helping more people directly access the Internet.
The study surveyed 1,500 individuals across the country who received support from a Digital Navigator. With the support of these digital case workers:
- More than 65 percent of survey respondents said they obtained Internet access or a computer or tablet at home; among Hispanic and Black Americans, this increased to 72 percent.
- More than 85 percent of all respondents said they used the Internet more frequently.
- Almost half surveyed obtained better healthcare, and 40 percent received support with basic needs like food, rent, and housing.
- 1 in 3 found a new job or earned a higher income.
“The positive impact Digital Navigators have is astounding. Their success proves that to close the digital divide we need to connect with people in person to grow their comfort and confidence with technology and going online,” said Bret Perkins, Comcast Senior Vice President of External & Government Affairs. “By funding the creation of a Digital Navigators program with our dedicated community partners, we are one step closer to closing the digital divide in
According to the National Skills Coalition,
The Rotary Club, Neighborhood Association,
Digital Navigators will also encourage residents to undergo digital skills training at the Apalachee Ridge Estates Technology & Learning Center, which has been a Comcast Lift Zone since May 2021. Lift Zones are WiFi connected spaces at the facilities of Comcast community partners where residents and students can get online.
“We are thrilled about expanding our partnership with Comcast today,” said Christic Henry, President of the Greater Apalachee Ridge Estates Neighborhood Association. “Not only did we launch our Tallahassee Connected campaign, but the Inaugural Digital Equity Forum allowed community stakeholders and residents to gather and speak openly about the challenges of not being connected and how we can work together to resolve digital inequities.”
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.
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MEDIA:
Cindy Arco
Comcast NBC/Universal
904-738-3412
Cynthia_Arco@comcast.com
Source: Comcast Corporation
