YMCA of Greater Houston and HP partner to enhance the digital literacy of 5,000+ community members
As part of the World YMCA and HP Inc. global partnership launched in January 2022, the YMCA of Greater Houston, Texas, USA, plans to accelerate digital equity and improve learning outcomes among youth, seniors and underserved communities. In the first year of the initiative, the YMCA of Greater Houston anticipates serving 5,000 residents to enhance community members’ learning and well-being through digital literacy and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education programming.
On 22 May 2023, the YMCA of Greater Houston and technology leader HP opened Houston’s first YMCA Digital Hub at its West Orem Family YMCA. The centre will feature:
- Computer literacy classes for older adults
- Youth programmes to enhance literacy and STEM education
- Language courses
- Computer lab to provide access to job searches, CV building and more.
YMCA and HP LIFE programming will be available to all community members at no cost, and a YMCA membership is not required to participate.
“In tandem with our organisation’s mission to connect the community and provide equal opportunities for all, the YMCA of Greater Houston is proud to partner with HP to bring necessary resources to Houston and promote digital equity across the city,” said Stephen Ives, president and CEO, YMCA of Greater Houston. “We look forward to developing accessible, adaptable programming to empower and enhance our neighbours’ digital literacy skills and STEM education.”
HP LIFE, a free IT and business skills training program from the HP Foundation, provides accessible training courses to enrich lives around the world, support economic independence and improve employability skills. Courses include communications, business start-up, finance, marketing and operations. Over 32 self-paced courses, available in eight languages, are modular, interactive and full of information and practical exercises to enable users to develop the necessary skills for a successful future.
“We’re thrilled to build on our partnership with YMCA to equip local communities with the digital tools they need to succeed,” said Ina Progonati, HP Global Lead for Sustainability and Social Impact Partnerships and Programs. “HP is committed to accelerating digital equity for 150 million people by 2030, and our strategic partnerships are key to our goal to narrow the digital divide.”
Looking ahead, the YMCA plans to develop a volunteer engagement program for HP employees at the headquarters office in Houston.