Important Message about the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

Digital Literacy for All

Computer Reach is a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit organization that makes technology available to people most in need through refurbished equipment, computer skills training, and support.

Block
Our Services
We Make Technology
& Digital Literacy
More Accessible
More Affordable
More Humane
for
Everyone
Computer Lottery

The Computer Lottery Program’s mission is simple yet profound: to provide community members with free computer bundles that include a reliable refurbished desktop computer, monitor, keyboard, and a mouse.

Our Digital Navigator Services provides community members with affordable connectivity solutions, appropriate computer device access, customized & in-person digital skills training, and ongoing remote and/or at-home quality tech support.

Wash CO DN Project
Computer Classes

Digital skills, once seen as a resume bonus, have now transformed into a prerequisite for success. Recognizing this imperative shift, our Computer Classes are meticulously designed to bridge the gap.

Active Rural Digital Inclusion Iniatives
Active
Rural Digital Navigator
Initiatives

These Digital Navigator Projects are part of Computer Reach’s efforts to bridge the digital divide in rural Southwestern, PA using the Community-based Digital Navigator Model:

impact reports header
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impact
reports

These reports are a testament to the remarkable impact our programs have on the lives of our community members.
Through meticulous data collection and captivating storytelling, we unveil the tangible outcomes and transformative effects our initiatives have on individuals and their communities.

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16,580

Devices Shipped

48,724

Volunteer Hours

47

United States Served

42

Nations Served

49,740

Individuals Impacted

Lisa Neil, President, Southwest Training Services, Inc.
Testimonials
Community Partners

Southwest Training Services, Inc.'s partnership with the Washington County PA Digital Navigator Project has been a very positive one which has greatly impacted the individuals that our agency enrolls and provides workforce development services with. Individuals and families who otherwise could not access a computer from home are now becoming digitally connected.

This program not only provides a computer, but it also enhances digital literacy and provides the tools and platforms, along with an engaged and knowledgeable staff, to deliver effective learning experiences. We are proud to partner with Computer Reach, and this project, which results in the growth of digital connectivity and literacy for families in Washington County.

Lisa Neil

President

Christie Johnson, Operations Manager, Ignite for Success
Testimonials
Community Partners

As the Operations Manager at Ignite, a business incubator and co-working space serving Washington County, I see many entrepreneurs and small business owners come through wanting to fulfill the dream of working for themselves.

We assist these entrepreneurs with free resources, consulting and programs designed to empower and educate. At times, I see small business owners come in and they do not have the technology or knowledge to be competitive and successful in today's market; this can be a difficult barrier to overcome and oftentimes is the difference between success and failure.

Knowing that the Digital Navigator Project exists in Washington County is a lifeline that I have seen, firsthand, make an impact on these small businesses. I am a proud partner of this initiative and so glad to be part of making a difference in our community.

Christie Johnson

Operations Manager

Zelayna Black, Digital Navigator End-user, Plum, PA
Testimonials
End-users

“My knowledge of technology and ways of life broaden everyday through research. With the proper technology that I have now I am able to do so, so Im am thankful for Achieva & Computer Reach.

You all have helped me gain a form of independence & access to the internet all from my home. I can also now work from home, if given the opportunity. Having a computer has made obtaining information, as well as creating digital forums, much easier.

I am forever grateful for the services that you all provide. Thank you for this amazing opportunity!”

Zelayna Black

Digital Navigator End-user

Maria Isabel Gonzales, Digital Navigator End-user, Mt. Oliver, PA
Testimonials
End-users

“I want to thank Computer Reach for helping my daughter finish her last year of high school by providing us with internet access and support. Access to the Internet was important during her last year of school because of the pandemic, but we couldn't afford it. So having free internet access at home made it a lot easier for her to do homework and research.

I am also thankful that they were always there when we had troubles with the hotspot. They made it all the way to our house to fix any of the issues we had in Spanish. It is a great service [Computer Reach] offers, and I hope they are able to serve more people like us, who really need it.”

Maria Gonzales

[Spanish-speaking] Digital Navigator End-user

Mount Oliver, PA

James Dugan, Lottery Program End-user, Blawnox, PA
Testimonials
End-users

“A few years ago, I suffered from a loss of blood pressure that resulted in a fall that caused broken ribs, broken laptop computer and furniture. I was forced to do computer work on my small-screened cell phone. Not easy with elderly eyes. I am a senior living on a fixed income without the means to replace all that was lost due to my accident.

The Computer Lottery Program that provides free [refurbished Giant Eagle] computers for those in need has restored access to my friends and family worldwide. I should also mention that there are other seniors in my high-rise apartment building that have received free computers from Computer Reach. Thank you again for being a very important part of our community.”

James Dugan

Computer Lottery Program End-user

Blawnox, PA

Dave Lambert, Chief, Cokeburg Volunteer Fire Co., Washington County, PA
Testimonials
Community Partners

“The Washington Co Digital Navigator Project has been a game-changer for the emergency services in Cokeburg borough, specifically for the Cokeburg Volunteer Fire Department. With access to critical devices and comprehensive digital skills training, the project has helped us significantly improve our life-saving emergency services and enhanced our response capabilities to fire protection and other critical situations.

The project's support has bridged the gap between our aspirations and financial constraints, enabling us to better serve our community with faster and more efficient responses. We are immensely grateful for their support and excited about the positive impact it will have on our department's operations and the safety of our residents.”

Chief Dave Lambert

Cokeburg Volunteer Fire Co.

Cokeburg, PA

Rick Bucks, Digital Navigator End-user, Washington Co, PA
Testimonials
End-users

“As a homeless person, my life has been a series of trials and tribulations, abandonment, abuse, and addiction, but I refuse to let my past define my future. The Digital Navigator Project holds immense significance for me as I embark on the journey of rebuilding my life. Through this project, I was provided with computer and digital skills training, including computer classes.

These resources will be the key to reignite my passion for spreading the message of hope and redemption.The project is empowering me to reclaim what I have lost and rebuild the foundations of my professional life, and breathe new life into my entrepreneurial endeavors.
Most importantly, the Digital Navigator Project will allow me to reconnect with my children, who have been deeply affected by my past struggles.”

Rick Bucks

Digital Navigator End-user

Washington, PA

Robert “Bobby” Jenks, Digital Navigator End-user, Heidelberg, PA
Testimonials
End-users

“I am a United States Army veteran and I am currently going back to school and majoring in Criminal Justice and Human Services. I decided to do that because I would like to supplement my social security income. Prior to receiving the Digital Navigator services, I was doing my school work on my cell phone. Needless to say, it was very difficult for me to properly access my coursework or even do research or work on my assignments.

[The Digital Navigator] program was a game changer for me. [The digital navigator] came to my house and he set up the computer and wi-fi hotspot; he also patiently showed me how to use the computer, access my school’s website, and use the internet. A few weeks later, my school provided me with a laptop to be used for school work. This was great, but it also posed a problem because the laptop’s operating system needed to be configured before I could use it. I had no idea how to do that.

At first, I tried calling a couple of tech service companies, but quickly I realized it was gonna be too expensive. This is because I don’t have a car,so the techs had to come to my house. My last hope was to call [the Digital Navigator Program] asking for help with my laptop. I was happy I did, because they promptly scheduled an appointment for an in-person training session. They came to my house and configured my laptop and showed me how to properly use it. They stayed with me for about an hour.

I can’t say enough about [the Digital Navigator program]. This is such a great service for folks like me who just can’t afford in-person training and who can’t physically attend in-person computer classes.”

Bobby Jenks

Digital Navigator End-user

Heidelberg, PA

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