Shownotes: https://mysmart.community/2023/10/23/scp-e352/
Anchor Hosted Episode Page: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smart-community-podcast/episodes/Brave-Conversations--and-Courageous-Collaborations-in-the-Smart-Community--with-Jennifer-Sanders-e2asq84
YouTube: https://youtu.be/f0lcaU_ZEjQ
The Smart Community Podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or our website.
Innercity Community Development Corporation Officially Opens Connected Dallas’ First Community Anchor Site
ICDC’s site will operate as a walk-in center offering computer lab, one-on-one support connecting to the Affordable Connectivity Program, online-based services, and hosting digital skills workshops
August 17, 2023 [DALLAS, TX} - Today, the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA)’s Connected Dallas Digital Ambassador program has officially opened its first Community Anchor Site at Innercity Community Development Corporation, in the Mill City neighborhood in South Dallas. The site’s community opening celebration today represents the first of eight sites that will open by late spring 2024, offering the brick-and-mortar walk in center piece of the program. The site will open for regular operations on August 21st, Monday - Thursday 12:00-5:00pm. The Connected Dallas program’s mission is to provide a full spectrum of digital navigation touchpoints that meet the community where they are, whether by text, chat, phone, online or in-person at local community organizations. The Connected Dallas framework is provided by National Digital Inclusion Alliance.
“Getting all Dallas residents fully engaged in the opportunities that today’s digital world provides is complex and requires each of us to play a part, today represents a huge moment in realizing this vision,” commented Jennifer Sanders, Executive Director, Dallas Innovation Alliance. “Building this comprehensive program has only been possible through the generous investments in digital equity from our partners at AT&T, Santander Consumer USA Foundation, Dallas Foundation and we are honored by the trust that the City of Dallas has placed in DIA to execute the City’s Digital Navigator’s Program. We are so grateful for the opportunity to do this work.”
“Today’s opening of the Connected Dallas Community Anchor Site at ICDC’s Homeownership Center will bring a huge boost to our community, for whom internet access and skills to fully utilize it are a persistent challenge,” stated Billy Lane, Executive Director, Innercity Community Development Corporation. “Supporting our community’s connection to digitally based services – especially as it relates to homeownership – is a win for ALL,” “We cannot wait to begin operations on August 21st and provide these resources to South Dallas.”
Founded in 1986, South Dallas Fair Park Innercity Community Development Corporation, known as ICDC, is a 501(c) (3) community-based development corporation serving the needs of the South Dallas/Fair Park neighborhoods. Its programs focus on homeownership and economic development under the umbrella of holistic community development.
“The City of Dallas is committed to bridging the digital divide through cross-sectoral engagement and collaboration to address the various needs of the public and private sector to get connected. Which includes Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) enrollment assistance, tech support, and community engagement and more,” commented Genesis Gavino, Chief of Staff to the City Manager, City of Dallas. “Community Anchor Sites represent a key resource to support communities within their neighborhood, we are thrilled to celebrate another step towards internet for all Dallas residents.”
Community Anchor Sites will provide hyper-local and on the ground support in under-connected communities. These sites are outfitted with technology and training to provide walk-in services to access computers and WiFi, one-on-one support for everything from Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) enrollment to telehealth appointments, as well as digital skills programs run by local Ambassadors. The second anchor site at Bachman Lake Together will open in September 2023. Connected Dallas partner CARDboard Project is providing a variety of their workshops and 10-Step Roadmap case management services with the program.
”At AT&T, we recognize that it takes a village to bridge the digital divide. For that reason, we are honored to support the Dallas Innovation Alliance in bringing Connected Dallas sites to life, in communities across Dallas,” said Mylayna Albright, the assistant vice president for Corporate Social Responsibility at AT&T. “ALL communities deserve nothing less than to have access to digital devices and high-speed internet, at an affordable price, and last but not least, the ability to adopt digital skills needed to see value in their connection. As a partner of Connected Dallas, it brings us great joy to help narrow the digital divide. We look forward to continually doing our part to create a better future for our community.”
Connected Dallas is also accepting requests from local community organizations to host train-the-trainer sessions for their teams to utilize Connected Dallas resources to serve their clients; as well as request a Digital Ambassador to hold workshops and one-on-one office hours at their facility. Both of these requests can be made via this form on www.ConnectedDallas.org. Residents and organizations are encouraged to visit the central events calendar to find digital access events at organizations across Dallas. This integrated approach ensures community members are aware of, trained, and connected to any service that requires connectivity to improve quality of life and access to opportunity.
“Supporting digital inclusion and what that means for the economic prosperity of our Dallas community, is a priority for us,” said Christopher Pfirrman, Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel, Santander Consumer and Santander Consumer Foundation Board Chair. “We are thrilled to support this initiative and be part of the opening this first Community Anchor Site for Dallas residents.”
About the Dallas Innovation Alliance
Founded in 2015, the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) is a 501c3 cross-sector partnership dedicated to supporting Dallas’ smart cities strategy. The DIA defines a smart city as one that lives at the intersection of community, data and technology to enable resource efficiencies, inclusive economic development and improve quality of life. Since 2015, the DIA has built a network of over three dozen members across sectors, works with more than 100 community organizations, and over 20 departments at the City of Dallas. DIA’s Smart Cities Living Lab is the fastest-to-market smart cities initiative in the country. For more information, please visit. www.DallasInnovationAlliance.com.
About Connected Dallas
The Connected Dallas program is designed to provide a full spectrum of digital touchpoints for community members that meet them where they are, whether by phone, text, chat, online or in-person. This ensures community members are educated, trained, and connected to all services that require connectivity to improve quality of life. The Connected Dallas program is supported by leading philanthropic investments by AT&T, Santander Consumer USA Foundation and the Dallas Foundation, The DIA was selected by the City of Dallas to manage the Digital Navigators program provided through ARPA funding. The Connected Dallas framework is provided by National Digital Inclusion Alliance. For more information, please visit www.ConnectedDallas.org.
Media Contact:
Kelsey Neely, DRIVEN360, kelsey@godriven360.com, (678) 925-0911
Jennifer Sanders, Executive Director, Jen@DallasInnovationAlliance.com, (214) 909-0400
About the Dallas Innovation Alliance
The Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) is a 501c3 public-private consortium of key stakeholders across sectors including public, private, civic and academic. Founded in 2015 to support the City of Dallas’ smart cities strategy and execution, today the DIA works with three dozen member organizations, more than 20 departments at the City of Dallas and has worked with hundreds of community organizations and neighborhoods. The DIA defines a smart city as one that lives at the intersection of community, data and technology to improve quality of life, inclusive economic growth and resource efficiency. In 2017, the DIA launched the Smart Cities Living Lab, comprising 10 integrated projects in downtown Dallas, and is the fastest-to-market smart cities initiative in the country. Since 2018, the DIA has focused on challenges of equity in mobility, digital inclusion and public safety.
About the Connected Dallas Program
The Connected Dallas is an initiative led by the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) that will oversee digital ambassadors as they provide support for up to 10,000 residents over the next two years. Connected Dallas intends to ensure that community members are well-informed, trained, and connected to all services that require connectivity. The foundation of this program was built by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance’s Digital Navigator model.
Job Overview
The purpose of the Marketing Communications Specialist is to manage our online and offline communication within the communities we serve broadly and individually, and increase brand awareness of Dallas Innovation Alliance’s Connected Dallas initiative.
The Marketing Communications Specialist’s responsibilities include content creation, social media management, press release drafting and media outreach, community-focused print and online communications, distributing promotional material, light event coordination and networking during marketing events. Ultimately, the Marketing and Communications Specialist will act as our brand’s voice to increase positive sentiment and relationship development amongst key stakeholders.
Required Educational Level: Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a field related to the job, plus three years experience related to the job. Experience may be substituted for education up to a maximum of four (4) years.
Responsibilities and Duties
Develop engaging and informative content for various marketing channels, including websites, newsletters, social media platforms, and infographics.
Design and distribute promotional material through grassroots, print, and digital channels
Foster close collaboration with a diverse array of cross-functional teams, such as the DIA and Connected Dallas teams, corporate sponsors, vendors, partners, and other stakeholders, to effectively synchronize marketing endeavors with overarching organizational objectives.
Manage and grow our social media presence, creating engaging content, responding to inquiries, and monitoring discussions to foster a positive brand image.
Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and marketing best practices. Share knowledge with the team and continually apply innovative ideas to improve marketing efforts.
Cultivate relationships with media outlets to secure press coverage and media partnerships.
Draft press releases and media pitches to communicate essential organization news and updates effectively.
Assist in planning and executing marketing events, workshops, and webinars. Coordinate logistics, invitations, and follow-ups to ensure successful outcomes.
Plan, execute, and analyze email marketing campaigns to nurture leads, drive stakeholder engagement, and promote upcoming events or initiatives
Critical Skills and Aptitudes
Excellent verbal and written communication skills enable you to be our organization’s authentic voice.
Hands-on experience in crafting and executing impactful marketing campaigns on social media platforms.
Experience in both broad and hyper-local communication strategies focused on grassroots outreach in the communities we serve.
Impressive presentation skills, enabling you to engage audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Proficiency in web content management tools, mainly WordPress and Content Management Systems, to maintain and update our online presence.
Ideal candidates will have experience with Squarespace, Mailchimp, Meltwater, and other content marketing/management tools.
Strong knowledge of SEO principles and the ability to interpret data using Google Analytics to optimize marketing strategies.
As the Marketing and Communications Specialist, you will be pivotal in driving the Connected Dallas initiative's success and helping shape our organization's future. Suppose you are passionate about innovative technologies and possess a flair for creative storytelling. In that case, we invite you to join our team and make a lasting impact in the vibrant Dallas community.
Work Environment & Benefits
Employees may work remotely on a basis per DIA’s remote work policy. Remote work employees should indicate their primary working address in a remote working agreement. This document will also outline their responsibilities as remote employees.
This role is full-time salaried with benefits. Dallas Innovation Alliance offers a flexible paid-time off plan which includes vacation, personal, and sick leave. Ten paid Federal holidays are observed, as well as a floating birthday holiday. Our vacation policy is flexible, we just ask for advanced notice to plan for team coverage.
The Dallas Innovation Alliance is committed to workplace diversity and inclusion. We are equal opportunity employers and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We offer competitive salaries and a pleasant working environment. Salary is based on a nonprofit scale and commensurate with experience.
As the Marketing and Communications Specialist, you will be pivotal in driving the Connected Dallas initiative's success and helping shape our organization's future. Suppose you are passionate about innovative technologies and possess a flair for creative storytelling. In that case, we invite you to join our team and make a lasting impact in the vibrant Dallas community.
The new Community Anchor Site will open in September, 2023.
Today, the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) announces its partnership with Bachman Lake Together for the second Community Anchor Site as part of the Connected Dallas Digital Ambassador program. The site will formally open in late Summer 2023.
The Connected Dallas program is designed to provide a central hub for information and connection to internet-based services through multiple channels, including in-person, online, and phone. It intends to simplify access to online resources that improve quality of life and provide access to opportunities that digital connectivity provides.
As a Connected Dallas Community Anchor Site, Bachman Lake Together will provide hyper-local and on-the-ground support to the community. Through partnerships with community organizations like Bachman Lake Together Family Center and the program’s first CAS, Innercity Community Development Corporation (or ICDC), sites are outfitted with technology and trained Digital Ambassadors to provide walk-in services to access computers and internet services , one-on-one support, and digital skills programs.
Founded in 2009 through a five-year commitment from the Zero to Five Funders Collective, and formally established as an organization in 2014, Bachman Lake Together is a nonprofit, collective-impact initiative that connects families, community partners and supporters in a shared purpose: giving every child the opportunity to thrive by giving them a solid foundation in the earliest, most critical developmental years of ages 0-5. Bachman Lake Together believes this goal will be most effectively achieved by working together and ensuring everyone has a voice in the process.
The Connected Dallas program is supported by leading philanthropic investments from AT&T, the Santander Consumer USA Foundation, and the Dallas Foundation. In addition, the DIA was selected by the City of Dallas to manage the Digital Navigators program provided through ARPA funding.
“We are thrilled to partner with Bachman Lake Together as one of Connected Dallas’ first Community Anchor Sites,” commented Jennifer Sanders, Executive Director, Dallas Innovation Alliance. “Community Anchor Sites are a critical piece of Connected Dallas’s mission to provide a full spectrum of digital touchpoints that meet the community where they are, whether by phone, text, chat, online or in-person. Bachman Lake Together’s deep work serving families and building collective impact make them a natural fit for the work in getting to Connection for All.”
“The challenge of broadband infrastructure has more recently pronounced the inequities that exist in communities like Bachman Lake. We are honored to be chosen as an anchor site to increase technology access for Bachman Lake families through a dual-generation approach,” says Dr. Olga Martinez Hickman, Executive Director, Bachman Lake Together. “Success for our children in the 21st century is more than just knowing your letters and numbers, but the whole family and community must be familiar with the latest technology and understand the role it plays in our education, economic mobility and everyday lives.”
The next round of Community Anchor Site applications are open, and DIA expects to open an additional four sites before the end of the year. Please visit here for additional information on the application process and updates.
The ConnectedDallas.org website is designed to be an online resource hub that provides comprehensive support for residents, as well as service providers, through centralized resources, training materials and curriculum to available programs and services. The website features 13 different digital resource topics, tips and curriculum, including the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and internet plan access, devices, skills, security, telehealth, finance, job seeking, seniors, veterans, transportation and more. Other offerings include a central events calendar, ways to request ambassadors, training sessions at community organizations upon request, and more are now available. The Connected Dallas framework is provided by National Digital Inclusion Alliance.
About the Dallas Innovation Alliance
Founded in 2015, the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) is a 501(c)(3) cross-sector partnership dedicated to supporting Dallas’ smart cities strategy. The DIA defines a smart city as one that lives at the intersection of community, data and technology to enable resource efficiencies, inclusive economic development, and improve quality of life. Since 2015, the DIA has built a network of over three dozen members across sectors, works with more than 100 community organizations, and over 20 departments at the City of Dallas. DIA’s Smart Cities Living Lab is the fastest-to-market smart cities initiative in the country. For more information, please visit. www.DallasInnovationAlliance.com.
About Connected Dallas
The Connected Dallas program is designed to provide a full spectrum of digital touchpoints for community members to meet them where they are, whether by phone, text, chat, online or in-person. This ensures community members are educated, trained, and connected to all services that require connectivity to improve quality of life. The Connected Dallas framework is provided by National Digital Inclusion Alliance. For more information, please visit www.ConnectedDallas.org.
About Bachman Lake Together:
Bachman Lake Together (BLT) serves as the backbone organization for their neighborhood. BLT's mission is to unite the Bachman Lake community to fully prepare children for kindergarten – academically, socially and emotionally – so they can thrive in school and in life. Bachman Lake Together coordinates, communicates and measures the collective impact of Bachman Lake families, 50+ partner organizations, committees and working groups. For more information, please visit .
About the Dallas Innovation Alliance
The Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) is a 501c3 public-private consortium of key stakeholders across sectors, including public, private, civic, and academic. Founded in 2015 to support the City of Dallas’ smart cities strategy and execution, today, the DIA works with three dozen member organizations and more than 20 departments at the City of Dallas and has worked with hundreds of community organizations and neighborhoods. The DIA defines a smart city as one that lives at the intersection of community, data, and technology to improve quality of life, inclusive economic growth, and resource efficiency. In 2017, the DIA launched the Smart Cities Living Lab, comprising ten integrated projects in downtown Dallas, and is the fastest-to-market smart cities initiative in the country. Since 2018, the DIA has focused on challenges of equity in mobility, digital inclusion, and public safety.
About the Connected Dallas Program
The Connected Dallas initiative led by the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) will oversee digital ambassadors as they support up to 10,000 residents over the next two years. Connected Dallas intends to ensure that community members are well-informed, trained, and connected to all services that require connectivity. The foundation of this program was built by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance’s Digital Navigator model.
Job Overview
The purpose of the Community Support Manager position is to plan and coordinate community activities, develop programs, create and adhere to budgets, liaise with company and community contacts, and supervise personnel. Required Educational Level: Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a field related to the job, plus one (1) year experience related to the job. Experience may be substituted for education up to a maximum of four (4) years.
Responsibilities and Duties
● Work with community members and other stakeholders to identify necessary programs and services
● Oversee administrative aspects of programs to meet the objectives of the stakeholders
● Facilitate community and staff training and onboarding for the Connected Dallas program
● Analyze data to determine the effectiveness of programs
● Suggest and implement improvements to programs and services
● Plan and manage outreach activities for increased awareness of programs
● Write proposals for social services funding
● Other tasks as necessary.
Critical Skills and Aptitudes
● Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills
● Team management experience is preferred
● An operationally-minded and customer-centric individual - and a bit of an aesthete
● Familiarity with modern ticketing, customer engagement, and content/knowledge management solutions within customer service environments
● Knowledge of community programs and familiarity with community needs
● An aptitude for connecting with communities and people
Work Environment and Benefits
Employees may work on a hybrid basis per DIA’s remote work policy. Remote employees should indicate their primary working address in a remote working agreement. This document will also outline their responsibilities as remote employees.
This role is full-time salaried with benefits. Dallas Innovation Alliance offers a flexible paid-time-off plan which includes vacation, personal, and sick leave. Ten paid Federal holidays and a floating birthday holiday is observed. Our vacation policy is flexible; we ask for advanced notice to plan for team coverage.
The Dallas Innovation Alliance is committed to workplace diversity and inclusion. We are equal opportunity employers and do not discriminate in hiring or employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We offer competitive salaries and a pleasant working environment. Salary is based on a nonprofit scale and commensurate with experience.
To apply, please email info@dallasinnovationalliance.com your resume and cover letter with the subject line referencing this job posting. Please, no phone calls, emails, faxes, or in-person resume drop-offs. Please reference where you saw this posting. Dallas Innovation Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We are delighted to unveil Innercity Community Development Corporation (ICDC) as our inaugural Community Anchor Site for the Connected Dallas initiative. ICDC will play a pivotal role in fostering digital inclusion and empowering the local community through enhanced connectivity and access to vital resources.
As part of this groundbreaking initiative, we seek highly motivated individuals to join our team as Digital Navigators. This is the perfect opportunity if you are passionate about making a difference and helping bridge the digital divide.
Title: Digital Navigator
Reports to: The Digital Navigator will report to the Community Support Manager.
About the Dallas Innovation Alliance
The Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) is a 501c3 public-private consortium of key stakeholders across sectors, including public, private, civic, and academic. Founded in 2015 to support the
City of Dallas’ smart cities strategy and execution, today, the DIA works with three dozen member organizations and more than 20 departments at the City of Dallas and has worked with hundreds of community organizations and neighborhoods. The DIA defines a smart city as one that lives at the intersection of community, data, and technology to improve quality of life, inclusive economic growth, and resource efficiency. In 2017, the DIA launched the Smart Cities.
Living Lab, comprising ten integrated projects in downtown Dallas, is the fastest-to-market smart cities initiative in the country. Since 2018, the DIA has focused on challenges of equity in mobility, digital inclusion, and public safety.
About the Connected Dallas Program
The Connected Dallas initiative led by the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) will oversee digital ambassadors as they provide support for up to 10,000 residents over the next two years. Connected Dallas intends to ensure that community members are well-informed, trained, and connected to all services that require connectivity. The foundation of this program was built by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance’s Digital Navigator model.
Job Overview
The Digital Ambassadors provide individualized or small group assistance to community members who need affordable internet services, affordable internet-capable devices, and/or coaching in introductory digital skills to become effective internet users.
The Digital Ambassador’s work is part of the Dallas Innovation Alliance’s efforts to increase equitable internet access for residents of select neighborhoods and surrounding areas at the
Connected Dallas Community Anchor Sites. Preference will be given to Dallas area residents residing in the designated site zip code. DART Passes and other amenities are available for prospective residents if needed.
The Digital Ambassador role is a part-time position (20 hours weekly) with an hourly wage of $20.00.
Required Educational Level:
High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not required.
Minimum Age Requirement:
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age or turn 18 years of age before their start date.
Background Check Notice:
All offers of employment at Dallas Innovation Alliance are contingent upon precise results of a thorough background check.
Digital Ambassador - Job Description
Responsibilities and Duties
Attend Connected Dallas Digital Inclusion training sessions.
Discuss with each site visitor their state of access to the internet and devices, as well as technology experiences.
Assess site visitors’ access to technology, current digital skill level about connectivity needs, and internet use priorities.
Set agreed goals for Digital Ambassador services and confirm the details with the visitor.
Advise site visitors about free or affordable home internet service options for which they may qualify, assist site visitors in applying for services they choose, and support their efforts to secure service.
If necessary, advise site visitors about sources of affordable computers or other devices for which they may qualify and support their efforts to acquire appropriate devices and where they can get help for repair.
Coach site visitors as necessary to use internet services to meet their internet use priorities.
This may include in-person instruction and referrals to additional digital literacy skill training sources.
Act as lead instructor per the site schedule and the DIA calendar.
Track each site visitor's progress and types of requests, keep accurate and timely records, and report outcomes as required.
Plan and manage assistance to each site visitor to fulfil the agreed goals.
Provide support at other Connected Dallas sites and DIA programs as necessary.
Other tasks as necessary.
Critical Skills and Aptitudes:
Ability to embrace the challenge of learning and teaching basic technological concepts related to internet services, computer and device characteristics, and common online services and applications.
Excellent self-organization, language capacity, and cultural competency.
Excellent telephone and online communication skills, including establishing trust with community members of varied educational and cultural backgrounds.
Ability to demonstrate a positive attitude, excellent interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a sense of humor in working with diverse customers, coworkers, and the community.
Ability to creatively solve problems, and negotiate and handle stressful situations positively.
Ability to provide excellent customer service, establish appropriate boundaries with community members, and demonstrate innovation and flexibility.
Job Type: Part-time
Salary: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
License/Certification:
Driver's License (Preferred)
Work Location: On the road
Please send your Resume to sofia@dallasinnovationalliance.com
Connected Dallas Digital Ambassador Program Announces First Community Anchor Site and Expanded Website
Innercity Community Development Corporation will be the first Community Anchor Site opened as part of the Connected Dallas program.
May 15, 2023 [DALLAS, TX} - Today, the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) is announcing major progress on its Connected Dallas Digital Ambassador program, including a vastly expanded website and the location of its first Community Anchor Site at South Dallas’ Innercity Community Development Corporation (ICDC). The site will formally open in early Summer 2023. The Connected Dallas program’s mission is to provide a full spectrum of digital touchpoints that meet the community where they are, whether by phone, text, chat, online or in-person.
Founded in 1986, South Dallas Fair Park Innercity Community Development Corporation, known as ICDC, is a 501(c) (3) community-based development corporation serving the needs of the South Dallas/Fair Park neighborhoods. Its programs focus on homeownership and economic development under the umbrella of holistic community development.
Community Anchor Sites will provide hyper-local and on the ground support in under-connected communities. Through partnerships with community organizations, these sites are outfitted with technology and training to provide walk-in services to access computers and WiFi, one-on-one support, and digital skills programs run by local Ambassadors. The next round of Community Anchor Site applications will open later this month, and DIA expects to open between 4-6 sites before the end of the year. Connected Dallas partner CARDboard Project is providing a variety of their workshops and case management services with the program.
“Getting all Dallas residents fully engaged in the opportunities that today’s digital world provides is complex and requires each of us to play a part,” commented Jennifer Sanders, Executive Director, Dallas Innovation Alliance. “A big component of our program is establishing community locations that can provide in-person access, support and training. ICDC’s 40 years of service make them a natural partner for this critical role, we are thrilled to begin this work alongside them this summer.”
“Supporting our community’s connection to digitally based services – especially as it relates to homeownership – is a win for ALL,” stated Billy Lane, Executive Director, Innercity Community Development Corporation. “We applaud the DIA leadership and the partnerships that have made this initiative possible.”
Today, Connected Dallas also launched a major expansion of its website ConnectedDallas.org. The website is designed to be an online resource hub that provides comprehensive support for residents, as well as service providers, through centralized resources, training materials and curriculum and navigation to available programs and services. The updated website features 12 different digital resource topics, including navigating internet plan access, devices, skills, security, telehealth, finance, job seeking, transportation and more. A chat feature, central events calendar, ways to request ambassadors or training sessions at your organization and more are now available. This integrated approach ensures community members are aware of, trained, and connected to any service that requires connectivity to improve quality of life and access to opportunity. The Connected Dallas framework is provided by National Digital Inclusion Alliance.
The Connected Dallas program is supported by leading philanthropic investments by AT&T, Santander Consumer USA Foundation and the Dallas Foundation, The DIA was selected by the City of Dallas to manage the Digital Navigators program provided through ARPA funding.
“The addition of Community Anchor Sites to the Connected Dallas program will help connect Dallasite’s to digital resources and services, including job applications and online training opportunities, remote education, and tele-health appointments,” expressed Francisco Gallegos, Digital Inclusion Program Manager, Dallas Innovation Alliance. “We are thrilled to partner with ICDC to bring these resources to the South Dallas community, and work alongside them in their transformative efforts in the community.”
A recording of May 4th’s Connected Dallas virtual information is available here. For questions, please contact Francisco Gallegos, Digital Program Manager, at Francisco@ConnectedDallas.org.
About the Dallas Innovation Alliance
Founded in 2015, the Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) is a 501c3 cross-sector partnership dedicated to supporting Dallas’ smart cities strategy. The DIA defines a smart city as one that lives at the intersection of community, data and technology to enable resource efficiencies, inclusive economic development and improve quality of life. Since 2015, the DIA has built a network of over three dozen members across sectors, works with more than 100 community organizations, and over 20 departments at the City of Dallas. DIA’s Smart Cities Living Lab is the fastest-to-market smart cities initiative in the country. For more information, please visit. www.DallasInnovationAlliance.com.
About Connected Dallas
The Connected Dallas program is designed to provide a full spectrum of digital touchpoints for community members that meet them where they are, whether by phone, text, chat, online or in-person. This ensures community members are educated, trained, and connected to all services that require connectivity to improve quality of life.
The Connected Dallas framework is provided by National Digital Inclusion Alliance. For more information, please visit www.ConnectedDallas.org.
Media Contact:
Jennifer Sanders, Executive Director, Jen@DallasInnovationAlliance.com, (214) 909-0400
Para publicación inmediata 15 de marzo de 2023
Concejo de la Ciudad de Dallas aprueba el Programa de Navegadores Digitales
DALLAS, TX - El 8 de marzo de 2023, el Concejo de la Ciudad de Dallas aprobó un acuerdo con Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA, por sus siglas en inglés) para actuar como subreceptor de fondos del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense (ARPA, por sus siglas en inglés) con el fin de administrar el Programa de Navegadores Digitales.
El propósito del Programa de Navegadores Digitales es abordar los cuatro pilares de la equidad digital en la Ciudad de Dallas a través de la asequibilidad, el acceso, los dispositivos y las habilidades digitales. El programa colaborará con las comunidades seleccionadas para aliviar y comprender mejor su necesidad de estar conectados a internet, utilizar computadoras de escritorio y portátiles, y adquirir entrenamiento para apoyar las habilidades digitales, así como una mayor conciencia y uso de los recursos de la Biblioteca Pública de Dallas.
El programa aumentará el conocimiento público de la importancia de la equidad digital y fomentará los esfuerzos de inclusión digital en toda nuestra ciudad para mejorar el acceso a la banda ancha, fomentar la adopción y promover las habilidades digitales que mitiguen los efectos negativos de la inequidad digital en las brechas educativas, las pérdidas de empleo y vivienda, la inseguridad alimentaria y las crisis de salud en las comunidades objetivo.
La Ciudad de Dallas y la Dallas Innovation Alliance se han comprometido a reducir la brecha digital a través de la participación y la colaboración intersectorial para hacer frente a las diversas necesidades del sector público y privado para conectarse. Esto incluye asistencia para la inscripción en el Programa de Conectividad Asequible (ACP, por sus siglas en inglés), asistencia técnica, participación de la comunidad y mucho más.
"Conseguir que todos los residentes de Dallas participen plenamente en las oportunidades que ofrece el mundo digital actual es complejo y requiere que cada uno de nosotros desempeñe un papel en la infraestructura, el acceso, las habilidades y el compromiso", comentó Jennifer Sanders, cofundadora y directora ejecutiva de Dallas Innovation Alliance. "El liderazgo y la visión de la Ciudad de Dallas para afrontar este reto es admirable y DIA está muy agradecido de ser un socio para conseguir que nuestros vecinos de todo Dallas estén conectados y capacitados".
El 25 de marzo, se llevará a cabo el festival comunitario Get Connected Dallas en South Oak Cliff High School para celebrar e informar sobre todas las formas en que la tecnología y el acceso digital mejoran nuestras vidas, e incluirá artistas locales, feria de recursos digitales, inscripción en ACP, feria de empleo, actividades de STEM y camiones de comida del sur de Dallas.
La puesta en marcha del Programa de Navegadores Digitales impulsará las recomendaciones identificadas en el Plan Estratégico de Banda Ancha y Equidad Digital de la Ciudad. El plan señala formas concretas en que la Ciudad puede reducir la brecha digital mediante inversiones en infraestructura, asociaciones público-privadas y programas.
Para leer el documento completo y aprender más sobre lo que está haciendo la Ciudad para reducir la brecha digital, visite bit.ly/dallasdigitaldivide
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Para más información, contacte a: Stephanie Ramírez,
Estefania.ramirez@dallas.gov
For Immediate Release March 15, 2023
DALLAS, TX – On March 8, 2023, Dallas City Council approved an agreement with Dallas Innovation Alliance (DIA) to serve as a subrecipient of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the purpose of administering the Digital Navigators Program.
The purpose of the Digital Navigators Program is to address the four pillars of digital equity across the City of Dallas through: Affordability, Access, Devices, and Digital Skills. The program will engage with targeted communities to better understand and alleviate their needs to be connected to the internet, utilize computers and laptops, and acquire training to support digital skills, as well as increased awareness and use of the Dallas Public Library resources.
The program will increase public knowledge of the importance of digital equity and encourage digital inclusion efforts across our city to improve broadband access, foster adoption, and promote digital skills that will mitigate the negative effects of digital inequity on educational gaps, job and housing losses, food insecurity and health crises in the targeted communities.
The City of Dallas and the Dallas Innovation Alliance are committed to bridging the digital divide through cross-sectoral engagement and collaboration to address the various needs of the public and private sector to get connected. Which includes Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) enrollment assistance, tech support, and community engagement and more.
“Getting all Dallas residents fully engaged in the opportunities that today’s digital world provides is complex and requires each of us to play a part across infrastructure, access, skills and on-the-ground engagement,” said Jennifer Sanders, Cofounder and Executive Director, Dallas Innovation Alliance. “The City of Dallas’ leadership and vision for attacking this challenge head on is commendable, and DIA is so grateful to be a partner in getting our neighbors across Dallas connected and empowered.”
On March 25, the Get Connected Dallas community festival will be held at South Oak Cliff High School to celebrate and educate all of the ways that technology and digital access improves our lives, and will include local performers, digital resource fair, ACP enrollment, onsite job fair, STEM village and South Dallas food truck vendors.
The launch of the Digital Navigators Program will advance the recommendations identified in the City’s Broadband and Digital Equity Strategic Plan. The plan identifies specific ways the City can bridge the digital divide through infrastructure investments, public-private partnerships, and programming.
To read the full document and learn more about what the City is doing to bridge the digital divide, visit bit.ly/dallasdigitaldivide
For More Information Contact Stephanie Ramirez, Estefania.ramirez@dallas.gov
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Get Connected Dallas! To Celebrate Technology and Access for the Community
First time event connects the community to technology, resources, STEM education and each other!
DALLAS, TX - March 12, 2023 – Today, the CARDboard Project and Dallas Innovation Alliance announced Get Connected - Dallas! an event designed for the Dallas community to celebrate all the ways technology and connection improve communities, quality of life and access to opportunities. The event will be held on Saturday, March 25d at South Oak Cliff High School. Get Connected - Dallas is made possible through the generosity of EY, City of Dallas, Capital One, First United Bank, NETSCOUT, Currently Events and leadership at South Oak Cliff High School.
“Engaging in today’s world requires being connected – whether for school, career, healthcare, access to services and transportation – it is both a utility and a source of engagement and entertainment,” commented Armando Cantu, Executive Director, CARDboard Project.
Jennifer Sanders, Executive Director, Dallas Innovation Alliance added, “Get Connected Dallas is both of these things – a celebration of our community and a connection to all of the resources available that enable living life fully today. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the inaugural Get Connected - Dallas at South Oak Cliff High School!”
This cross-generational event represents the first Dallas digital inclusion festival, including live stage performances, STEM village, Food Trucks, DPD’s drone unit, and will address barriers to digital access that impact education, job training and on-the-spot job interviews, connection to benefits and services, healthcare, among other aspects of modern life.
As Derrick Battie, community liaison at South Oak Cliff High School explained: “There are many members of our 75216 community who still don’t have access to the internet or know how to get online. Without that, it makes it even harder to get jobs and apply for services. This event will give the southern Dallas community the answers they need to get connected.”
Let’s get empowered by getting connected!
What’s Happening?
Stage with performances from South Oak Cliff High School performance groups, elected officials, musical performances from TeX, live mural with Ebony Lewis, dance troupes, speakers and more
Resource fair with stations for all elements of digital services, from internet access to jobs to mobility to healthcare, following CARDboard Project’s 10-Step Roadmap
Workshops and activities in digital skills, cybersecurity, robotics and others
STEM Village with activities for children and families
"Mobile Village" gathering of mobile units and food trucks, including Mobile Learning Lab, Food Trucks from the Sunny South Dallas Food Park, and resources from ilooklikelove’s “Big Baby” truck.
Onsite Job Fair with opportunities for on-the-spot interviews with local employers
Special guests!
Event Details:
Saturday, March 25, 2023
10:00am – 2:00pm
South Oak Cliff High School, 3601 S Marsalis Ave, Dallas, TX 75216
Admission is Free! Registration is requested!
Want to Get Involved?
For more information, please visit www.getconnecteddallas.org, or reach out to info@getconnecteddallas.org.
About CARDBoard Project
CARDBoard Project is a non-profit organization established to address the digital divide in under-served communities. CBP’s mission is to connect the digitally disconnected to opportunities, services, and access to self-sufficiency through programs including the Mobile Device Center, the Virtual Call Center, Digital Skills Training, and the 10—Step Roadmap to Self-Sufficiency.
About Dallas Innovation Alliance
Dallas Innovation Alliance’s mission is to support the design of “smart cities solutions for Dallas”. DIA finds new and innovative ways to solve big challenges through an approach at the intersection of technology, data, and community. The DIA Supports digital access and inclusion efforts via programs including the Mobile Learning Lab, Internet for All Coalition, and community partnerships providing digital literacy, skills, and access.
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Dallas Innovation Alliance, 2022
