(DENVER) – The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment’s (CDLE) Office of the Future of Work (OFW) in partnership with Serve Colorado is pleased to announce a special Request for New Applications (RFA) that seeks applicants interested in establishing Digital Navigation AmeriCorps programs to address digital inequities.
“Too many Coloradans remain disconnected, preventing them from participating fully in their communities and economy,” said Katherine Keegan, director of the OFW. “This Digital Navigator Pilot Program allows the Office of the Future of Work and Serve Colorado to reduce barriers that prevent historically marginalized folks across our state from accessing the tools and digital skills training they need to participate in an increasingly digital world."
Digital equity, literacy, and inclusion are essential to ensuring all Coloradans are able to fully participate in their community, democracy, and economy. This program is a result of SB22-140, which requires the OFW to deploy community-based digital navigators to address digital inequities (access to technology, digital skills, and affordable internet) that prevent people from accessing work-based learning, job training, and employment opportunities. The role of Digital Navigators in their community will be to:
- Assess community members’ access to internet service and equipment at home, along with their ability to utilize technology to meet their needs and achieve their goals;
- Create digital inclusion goals and work with community members to achieve them;
- And serve people who are members of historically marginalized communities.
Important dates for the Digital Navigator Special Competition:
- RFA Orientation Webinar: July 10, 2023
- Concept Paper Due: August 4, 2023
- Interest Forms Due: August 11, 2023
- Technical Assistance on Grant Documents for Successful Concepts: August 16 - September 6, 2023
- Full Set of Application Materials Due: September 11, 2023
- AmeriCorps Member Earliest Start Date: January 2024
Learn more about the Digital Navigator Special Competition and how to apply here. To learn more in general about the Digital Equity, Literacy, and Inclusion Initiative within the Office of the Future of Work under CDLE, please visit: cdle.colorado.gov/digitalinclusion.
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