It’s been years in the making. Under a grant from AT&T, BridgingApps has teamed with Compudopt, a device refurbisher and fellow nonprofit that shares our goal of closing the digital divide.
For eighteen years, Compudopt has supplied digital devices and technology training to children, youth, and families in under-served communities. For fourteen years, BridgingApps has provided digital skills training to people with disabilities and their families, on mobile and web-based applications and devices.
Ready, Set, Get Connected!
For the Compudopt partnership project, BridgingApps staff will conduct small group trainings throughout the remainder of 2025. The first sessions took place in early August.
Groups include up to 15 participants from the Greater Houston area and beyond. Each training will include hands-on in-person sessions where each participant receives a free laptop, along with free access to the latest Microsoft Office software. Yes, “free” means exactly what it says. In one early training session, we asked a young-adult participant what she thought of having her very own laptop. She looked surprised and said, “You mean I get to keep it?”
Training topics include computer set-up and basic digital skills. Attendees also receive information on low-cost internet options. BridgingApps aims to reach people with disabilities, caregivers, seniors, and veterans who demonstrate the need for internet-enabled laptops to participate in all aspects of modern life! One example: a veteran participant, who had just landed a job, was grateful to have the computer for working remotely.
To learn more or see if you qualify for the program, please contact Tara Rocha.
Building Clients’ Digital Skills
While many Compudopt services are geared toward students and young adults, our shared project is connected to Compudopt’s Digital Skills Builder Program for primarily adult learners. Digital Skills Builder covers various practical topics:
- Computer basics (including orientation for first-time users)
- Email and the internet (from getting started to using email/online services for outreach)
- Online safety and digital citizenship
- Using tech in job searches and employment (from creating résumés to creating presentations)
- Life skills (financial apps, telehealth, etc.)
The training comes in multiple formats: videos for individual learning, real-time virtual classes, and in-person classes.
For information on Compudopt’s other programs, check out the following age-specific options:
- Tiny Techs, for first and second graders, emphasizes STEAM topics built around a “zoo” theme. Students learn to: master a keyboard; create a digital storybook; and understand the basics of coding.
- Early Adopters, for third, fourth, and fifth graders, uses a space-exploration theme. Students learn to: create virtual-reality characters and environments; use a micro:bit coding device; and design simulated space vehicles.
- STEAM Team, for middle school students, uses a mystery-solving theme. Students learn to: measure the distance between objects with a sonar sensor; convert text to binary code; design robotic vehicles; use a 3-D printer; understand geolocation; and create a video game.
- Learn2Earn, for high school students, builds technology-related employment skills. Students learn to: assemble a desktop computer; design interactive games; practice online safety; create and publish a personal website; and create animated 3-D models.
- Pathways, for young adults ages 16–26, further explores technology in the workplace. Students learn about basic job-search skills, and about jobs requiring various levels of education and technological abilities.
Graduates of STEAM Team, Learn2Earn, and Pathways also receive a free laptop.