On contemplating why he took the job here in PEC’s DI program, Reed and Kuruna gave a little person history. “Back in 2009, I took the DI high school after school class and it made the internet accessible to me the first time. I got my first computer here too.” Not only is Reed giving back to the same program that launched him into the tech world, but Reed says “I realize the impact on each person coming into the program here- it can really help. The internet helps people find jobs, apply to them, and I show people how to do that!”
Nathan Kuruna also recognizes the impact that the program can have on people and the community. He will be enabling Reed to have the things he needs for the classes, managing the program’s data, bringing information about the program out to the community, and putting pieces in place for the program. In past years, Kuruna has also taught the adult Computer and Internet classes here in PEC’s DI program.
The Digital Inclusion program’s goal is the make technology accessible to everyone through teaching computer and internet skills, introduce free or low-cost internet options to households, and upon graduation from the classes, each student receives a free or low-cost device. Reed emphasized the importance of keeping his students in the loop on the newest technology. The tech world moves fast and no one should be left behind if they don’t want to be. “We’re that first step that will introduce you to that big world of technology.”
Reed will be teaching numerous classes this fall including the Tech Stars Afterschool program, Tech Stars Mini Course and Adult Computer and Internet classes levels 1, 2 and 3. In the spring, DI will also be hosting the Teen Technology Network program. Keep up to date with PEC’s DI program by contacting Nathan Kuruna at nkuruna@pec-cares.org.