When MD, a young mother from Algeria, arrived in the U.S., she struggled to adapt to a new country. Despite her experience as a journalist, she faced language and digital barriers that left her feeling stuck in a job far from her aspirations.
But with the help of a digital navigator, she quickly developed the skills she needed to navigate online job searches and update her resume. Just a month later, she secured a new position at Philadelphia's International Airport—an opportunity she credits to the guidance and support she received.
Since 2020, the Digital Navigator Network has assisted 7,936 unique clients with their digital needs and distributed over 1,900 free or low-cost devices. With the expansion of the Digital Navigator Network in October 2023, the initiative now extends beyond Philadelphia to serve Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties, as well as Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. This growth enabled us to connect even more individuals like MD to the support they need to overcome digital barriers and access new opportunities.
Today, we celebrate the incredible work of the digital navigators who are breaking down those barriers, the partnerships that have made it all possible, and the thousands of lives that have been transformed through this powerful initiative.
BCBALLARD
DIGITAL NAVIGATORS: THE GUIDES TO OPPORTUNITY
At the heart of the Digital Navigator Network is connection. Whether it’s a person connecting to the internet for the first time, a student gaining access to online learning, or a busy parent securing housing and healthcare through digital tools, this initiative continues to create pathways to success.
Behind every one of these connections is a Digital Navigator. They provide personalized support, guiding individuals and families through the process of applying for free internet services, receiving devices, and learning how to navigate the digital world.
Their work is both technical and deeply human, rooted in trust and understanding. As one Digital Navigator shared, “We’re not just helping people get online; we’re helping them open doors to new opportunities.”
BCBALLARD
PARTNERSHIPS POWER PROGRESS
Our expansion and success would not have been possible without the generous support of our partners, Comcast NBCUniversal and the City of Philadelphia. Their commitment to digital inclusion has been essential to helping the Network reach more communities.
We’re also grateful to our incredible Digital Navigator Partners, whose dedication to closing the digital divide drives this initiative forward: Beyond Literacy, Drexel University’s exCITe Center, Southeast Asian Mutual Assistance Association Coalition (SEAMAAC), ACLAMO, Chester Education Foundation, Esperanza, Goodwill of Southwestern PA, Literacy Council of Norristown, Literacy Pittsburgh, and Media Fellowship House.
LOOKING FORWARD: A FUTURE OF EMPOWERMENT
As we look to the future, we remain committed to strengthening these partnerships and expanding the Network, ensuring that everyone—regardless of where they live—has access to the digital tools, skills and training they need to succeed.
We invite you to join us in this ongoing journey. Whether you know groups who could benefit from these services or want to support our mission, you can play a vital role in bridging the digital divide and empowering communities across our region.
Together, we can ensure no one is left behind in the digital age.