Bridging the Digital Divide Across Generations in NYC
Verizon Impact Forward Blog Series
The digital divide, while pervasive, creates unique challenges for different groups. While supporting communities to participate fully in our digitally connected society, Verizon has seen firsthand that there is no one size fits all approach for advancing inclusion. That’s why we strive to create tailored solutions for all communities – from students to older adults.
This effort underscores the importance of equipping older individuals with the knowledge and tools to connect safely online. Verizon’s Cyber Senior digital literacy program is addressing this need in partnership with local organizations. So far, in 2024, the program has hosted 26 cybersecurity workshops, reaching over 900 older adults across the Northeast and Midwest United States. The sessions teach participants a range of tactics, such as how to block unwanted calls and identify scam URLs.
In New York City, 500 older adults have benefited from these workshops, gaining confidence and practical skills to help them navigate their daily lives, such as safely managing online banking, protecting their personal information, and avoiding online scams. The Cyber Senior program intentionally supports underserved communities in areas like the Bronx. The workshops are language inclusive, offering sessions in Spanish through Presbyterian Senior Services (PSS) and in Mandarin and Cantonese through the Chinese American Planning Council (CPC). For example, we recently partnered with New York City Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato, who represents the Northeast Bronx, to host workshops at nine senior centers in partnership with R.A.I.N. Inc.
“In an area where our seniors are often the most vulnerable, the workshop has provided them with essential internet safety skills, greatly enhancing their confidence and security online,” said Silvia Ponce, Program Director at the Northeast Bronx Senior Center. “It’s not just about education, it’s about empowering our seniors to navigate the digital world safely.”
Our commitment to digital inclusion also extends to NYC youth. In collaboration with the Partnership for New York City, Verizon participates in Career Discovery Week, introducing dozens of tenth grade students to career paths and work-based learning opportunities. During Career Discovery Week, students engage in speed mentoring, tech showcases, and interactive demos, providing invaluable insights into the telecommunications industry. Earlier this year, students from the Manhattan International School gained hands-on experience with Verizon’s technology, including fiber optic cable demonstrations and a robot-building competition. These activities foster skills in programming, mechanical design, and problem-solving – essential areas for fields like robotics and artificial intelligence.
Verizon’s partnership with Career Discovery Week exposes NYC public school students to careers that aren’t traditionally covered in their education. Engaging with real-world technologies and Verizon professionals helps to demystify the tech industry, making it more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. Through these efforts, Verizon is shaping the next generation of tech leaders and promoting a more inclusive workforce.
“Verizon hosted an incredible experience for students at Manhattan International High School during Career Discovery Week, thoughtfully helping students better understand the skills needed in any work environment.”, said Yairi Velez, Partnership Manager at Grant Associates. “Between the panel discussion where students connected directly with Verizon employees and the Building a Robot challenge that fostered collaboration and problem-solving abilities, the day gave our students a real-world look into the world of work while also gaining invaluable skills.”
Through an intergenerational approach to digital inclusion, Verizon is breaking down the barriers facing older and younger New Yorkers. We are committed to advancing culturally competent solutions to close the digital divide that will empower everyone, regardless of age, to thrive in our connected world.
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Verizon Impact Forward is our ongoing series highlighting Verizon’s local approach to corporate social responsibility, including the community-based partnerships that make this work possible.