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Digital Navigator Network

Helping people and families access technology, digital literacy, and more. 

Access to the internet and digital devices is essential in today’s world.

It allows people to participate in society, democracy, and the economy. Without these vital resources, children and families cannot fully engage in virtual schooling, social connections, job opportunities, and more.

United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey’s Digital Navigator Network offers services to people requiring one-to-one dedicated support in accessing and using technology — and getting connected is just a phone call away. 

The Digital Navigator Network includes four counties: Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware, and Allegheny Counties.

By calling 211 and speaking with a Digital Navigator, people can find support locating low-cost computers, internet access, getting online, Affordable Connectivity Program, digital literacy, and more.   

With your support, we can grow this program to connect vital digital services to families across Greater Philadelphia.  

 

Our Partners

 

 

 

2024 Goals

1 in 5 American households aren’t connected to the internet, which is essential for employment, education, healthcare, and civic life. With support from Comcast NBCUniversal, we are expanding outreach and launching a new multi-year effort to bring United Way’s Digital Navigator Network to four counties. 

Efforts will prioritize the lowest connected priority zip codes, as well as callers from low-income households, households with K-12 students, and callers requesting language support.

3,000

Minimum goal of people to connect in Philadelphia County in FY24

1,000

Minimum goal of people to connect in Allegheny County in FY24

700

Minimum goal of people to connect in Montgomery and Delaware County in FY24

Society is moving virtual and having access to the devices, connectivity, and technology skills is critical to helping
individuals fully participate in all facets of society.
- Amina Omar, Director, Community Resiliency

Connect to help

Digital Navigator Services and resources available through 211 include:

  • Signing up for free or affordable internet access
  • Obtaining low-cost computers and devices  
  • Getting basic technical support
  • Troubleshooting connectivity issues
  • Participating in PHLConnectED
  • Finding digital literacy programs and classes 

Learn more on HOW TO connect to a 211 digital Navigator

 

 

Southeast PA

Delaware

Media Fellowship House

610-565-0434 or

 
Philadelphia

ESPERANZA

267-217-3508 or

THE EXCITE CENTER AT DREXEL UNIVERSITY

267-217-3508 or

SEAMAAC 

267-225-0684 or

BEYOND LITERACY

267-225-0684 or

 
Montgomery

ACLAMO

610-329-5240 or

Literacy Council of Norristown 

610-292-8515 or

answering the call 

PHLConnectED

In 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic upended society and quick action was needed to ensure Philadelphia households had a reliable connection to the internet. 

To help bridge the divide in digital equity, United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey stepped up to serve as the regional coordinator for PHLConnectED, a multi-year collaborative effort ensuring Philadelphia K-12 students can connect to digital learning opportunities at home. 

PHLConnectED leveraged efforts of the City of Philadelphia, School District of Philadelphia, Philadelphia School Partnership, Philadelphia Housing Authority, Comcast, and multiple philanthropic partners. Since 2020, United Way has designed, developed, and led a network of digital navigators, interacting with over 5,000 Philadelphia residents to help them connect and use the internet.

The Latest

Philadelphia Citizen: A Memo to Madam Mayor: Collaboration is Key to Philly’s future

November 6, 2023

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Comcast and United Way Announce Expansion of Digital Navigator Support to Help Connect More Greater Philadelphians to the Internet

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Residents of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties Will Soon Be Able to Dial 2-1-1 to Receive Digital Support from Trained & Trusted Community Partners;...

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