About

• Establish Partnerships with government agencies, technology companies, business and non-profit organizations, local schools, and academic institutions that sponsor or support social responsibility programs
• Engage Youth to learn and develop IT-related skills that can lead to well-paying career paths and entrepreneurship in the field of information technology.
• Coordinate Projects that allow youth and young adults to gain experience applying their IT-based skills by supporting diverse small businesses in their communities.
• Identify and Assess interest among small businesses to develop a website or social media profile to expand their business.
• Facilitate Exposure of IT-related and economic social responsibility programs and opportunities for youth, young adults and small businesses in underserved communities
• Set Up and Maintain a limited number of computer workstations at designated facilities in underserved communities where youth who lack a computer and internet access can participate in program instruction
• Explore Funding opportunities to financially support the program, including corporate donors, philanthropy, grants, scholarships, internships, and employment resources
• Measure progress and outcomes of youth, young adults and businesses participating in the program

The COVID-19 pandemic illuminated the severity of the digital divide within Los Angeles County. Due to physical distancing requirements, constituents experienced a greater dependency on technology to perform daily and routine activities. The sudden and large-scale transition to a virtual environment brought in clear view the vast disparities in access to information and communication technologies within underserved communities. A computer and reliable internet service are essential to accessing education, employment opportunities, healthcare services, financial resources, support networks, and commerce. Still, hundreds of thousands of constituents continue to experience hardships due to technological barriers. 

Major initiatives are underway to provide computer devices and internet access to underserved communities. These are necessary and critical steps to bridging the digital divide.  However, equally important is the knowledge and awareness of how to effectively use and navigate the resources available through technology. The combination of access and awareness can expand opportunities for growth, achievement and advancement among disadvantaged populations.

On October 27, 2020, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion titled Empowerment Program to Address the Digital Divide in Underserved Communities.  This motion establishes a program to empower youth and small businesses in underserved communities that are adversely impacted by the digital divide. Delete The Divide is the result of this progressive Board action.

Delete The Divide has partnered with various entities that can support the digital empowerment agenda. These entities include government, private corporations, academic institutions, non-profit organizations, community and faith-based organizations, philanthropists, and the sports and entertainment industries. Collectively, they will contribute resources to underserved communities to connect youth, young adults and small businesses to opportunities in technology. Delete The Divide serves as a central hub for gaining direct access to the programs and services offered through the partnerships.