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The partnership will provide computers and digital skills training to target social determinants of health and improve patients’ economic and medical wellbeing
AUSTIN, TX. –– JULY 14, 2021 –– Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTM), an organization that bridges the gap between the Black and Hispanic communities and the technology industry through job placement, career development, and networking opportunities, announced today a partnership with People’s Community Clinic (People’s) to beat back the trend toward digital illiteracy among Austin’s lower income communities.
“In our modern world, understanding how to safely and efficiently use technology is vital, but those without the resources or access to a computer often struggle to keep up,” said Michael Ward Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of AUTM. “We’re inspired by the great work People’s Community Clinic is doing and honored to be working towards a common goal of equitable opportunities for all.”
As part of the collaboration, the first cohort of 50 People’s patients will receive funding from AUTM to help obtain computers and will be provided with ten hours of digital literacy and training. Making computers and computer literacy skills accessible will open the door to utilizing telehealth, improve patients’ overall quality of life, and help them to become self-sustaining in today’s digital economy. This partnership also allows People’s patients to participate in AUTM’s tech workforce development programs.
The courses will cover topics such as:
- Digital skills development
- Information literacy
- Ethical use of digital resources
- Social media and understanding digital footprints
- Protecting yourself online
- Handling digital communication
- Cyberbullying
“This working relationship with AUTM will benefit our patients and our community for years to come,” said Cherelle Vanbrakle, Director of Health Promotion and Community Advocacy at People’s Community Clinic. “We are grateful for the opportunity to equip our patients with the tools and training needed to succeed in the digital world and overcome any barriers that stand in the way of their success.”
For more information about Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTM), visit www.autmtx.org.
About Austin Urban Tech Movement (AUTM)
Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTM) bridges the gap between Black and Hispanic communities and the technology industry through job placement, career development, and networking opportunities. AUTM’s vision is to increase representation of the Global Majority working, developing, and using
technology, while leading diversity, equity, and inclusion practices in the tech ecosystem. To learn more about Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTM), visit www.autmtx.org.
About People’s Community Clinic
People’s Community Clinic offers comprehensive health and wellness care to those in need. Its mission is to improve the health of medically underserved and uninsured Central Texans by delivering high-quality, affordable health care with dignity and respect.