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The Madison Mercantile (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
The Madison Mercantile launched a Digital Literacy Lab to close a critical gap for older residents in a rural county where most services are online. Without digital skills, many struggled to access health care, counseling and even family connections. The lab now offers computers, teleconference equipment and a wheelchair-accessible desk, with staff and volunteers guiding users. A soundproof room enables private telemedicine visits, and partnerships with tech support groups ensure devices work properly. By replacing a discontinued mobile computer program, the lab provides lasting digital access and strengthens community ties.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Waynesboro, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in rural Wayne County faced isolation and limited digital skills, making it hard to access online services or stay connected with family. The library offered free weekly computer classes and provided simplified tablets for home use, teaching email, internet basics and video calling. Participants practiced during sessions and at home to reinforce skills. They expressed excitement about learning and confidence in using devices for everyday tasks, showing how the program reduced isolation and improved digital access in a community with few resources.
Christiansburg, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in rural Virginia faced isolation during the pandemic, lacking internet access and basic computer skills. To close this gap, the group launched a Mobile Literacy Lab stocked with laptops, hotspots and other tools to deliver classes and tutoring. Two 10-week courses and five workshops taught email basics, safe browsing and virtual meeting skills. The lab now enables older adults to manage tasks like job searches and online communication. "This one hour class helped me more than anyone else in months," said Ellen, who learned to secure her email accounts. With new partnerships and a waiting list for future classes, the lab is set to remain a cornerstone for inclusive learning.
Lincoln, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: This projet will expand a digital literacy program to the Walt Branch Library, offering six weekly workshops and one-on-one Technology Time appointments. These sessions will help older adults learn essential digital skills.
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Milbank, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Park enhancements
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