Inspiredu Semi-Annual Report: Measurable Impact Empowers Communities
Each year, we set an impact goal for our mission. Today, we’re proud to share our semi-annual report, which reveals remarkable strides in the first half of the year. In fact, we’ve achieved 83% of our annual goal so far! This significant progress highlights the dedication of our team and effectiveness of our initiatives to promote digital equity in Georgia’s underserved communities.
"We are extremely grateful for this high number in the first half of the year,” says Inspiredu CEO and President Richard Hicks. “Inspiredu was just a little twinkle in our eye at one point, and now we are really seeing the fruits of our labor.”
Key accomplishments from the report
So far this year, we’re building digital inclusion through technology education and devices in the following ways:
Digital skills workshops
Eighty-nine digital skills workshops, both in-person (33 sessions) and virtual (56 sessions), reached an astounding 1838 learners. These workshops continue to be instrumental in equipping participants with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Home learning centers
An impressive 1649 home learning centers were distributed, serving as vital resources for both children and adults to engage in educational activities right from home.
Volunteer engagement
Our volunteers contributed 1633 hours to date, with 230 of these hours logged by our Digital Navigators, who play a crucial role as guides for our workshop participants.
Device donations
A total of 1106 devices were donated to our Eco Spark program for repurposing and recycling.
Family support initiatives
Our Learning Spark and Tech Support initiatives served 1702 families, ensuring they have the tools and support necessary to navigate the digital landscape.
Lives impacted
Overall, our various programs positively impacted the lives of 2243 individuals, offering them opportunities for personal and professional growth through digital skills education and access to technology.
Transforming lives through Inspiredu
The numbers are exciting, but they only tell a part of the story. Our report also includes some words from those we serve:
One parent in our program was relying solely on a mobile device for internet access. This proved challenging, especially for their two school-aged children to complete homework. After attending one of our family learning workshops, they received their own device. “My children are now doing much better in school,” the parent shares. “They’re able to turn assignments in on time and have better grades."
Another participant found the workshops so helpful they now encourage others in their community to attend. “You are never too old to learn,” they explain. “Now, my neighbor (age 72) and I meet at the library to practice our new skills together, and I’ve even taken this knowledge back to my parents. I love to work with them and their devices because each time they get better.” Their positive experience has even prompted this learner to serve as a volunteer at our future workshops.
Partnering for success through College AIM
Individual participants aren’t the only ones who shared their story in our latest report. For the past three years, our partnership with College AIM has helped break down the technology barrier for students in the program through laptop donations. This year marked the biggest donation to date, with more than 100 laptops provided to college students.
“Most of our students had a school-issued laptop in high school, and with tuition payments, dorms, meal plans, books, and so many other costs, purchasing a laptop can be a big lift,” explains Sam Aleinikoff, Executive Director and Founder at College AIM. “The impact of this donation is immense – our students head off to college prepared for the first day of class, with both the technology and confidence needed to succeed.”
Capital Campaign update
Another feature of the report is an update regarding our Capital Campaign. Launched in August 2022, the campaign had an ambitious goal of raising $1.5 million. We are thrilled to announce that we have exceeded this goal, raising over $1.6 million to date!
As part of the campaign, on June 12, 2024, work began on our Inspiredu Volunteer & Training Center renovation. The new space will feature expanded classroom areas for our digital workshops, increasing our capacity from just 15 participants to two 25-seat classrooms. Additionally, a larger, more organized warehouse will improve the efficiency of our staff and volunteers to refurbish computers, prepare them for deployment, and deliver ongoing tech support to our learners.
Looking ahead
With such an impressive start, we’re looking forward to the second half of the year. “Inspiredu remains committed to empowering individuals and families through digital literacy and access to technology,” shares Richard Hicks. “But our work here is not done, and we are determined to keep building digital equity for our community."
Through the continued support of our volunteers, partners, and the community, we are confident in our ability to surpass our impact goals and create lasting change.