As Technology progresses, more and more of us are always connected via smartphones and other mobile devices. The divide between those with technology and those without grows. Being connected online can mean having an advantage when searching for a new job or climbing to the next rung on your career ladder. If you’re not able to connect online, finding a job in an already difficult job market can be next to impossible. That’s why I am so excited about the Laptops for Ladies program we’re running with Girls in Tech Detroit. It gives us an opportunity to provide laptops to ladies who need a little extra help. This past Saturday, Audrey Walker and I, along with author Tara Michener, her husband and illustrator Jason Michener, and their intern Chelsea Rodgers, headed to Lighthouse PATH in Pontiac, a shelter that provides a safe and nurturing living environment for homeless women and children for two years. During those 2 years, they are given the time and training to make a transformation back to self-sufficiency.
Tara planned an event at PATH to read her children’s book that teaches about the importance of diversity, “Who I am not What I am.” Jason also spoke to the children about illustrating and who to draw what you see. They also handed out a bunch of goodies to both the children and mothers.
Audrey spoke about Girls in Tech Detroit and our Laptops for Ladies program and then I spoke for a few minutes about online resources and tools to help with finding a job. Then we held a raffle for the laptops we brought — unfortunately we didn’t have enough for everyone who came. Everyone was extremely grateful for the laptops and excited about learning how to use them. It was very gratifying to see laptops go to women who really appreciated them and could put them to good use.
Girls in Tech Detroit is holding another Laptops for Ladies event on December 18th at Reality Check Detroit, so if you have any laptops to donate (used or new or a donation), we’d really appreciate it. Donations are tax deductible. You can find information on local drop-off locations or make a donation at Laptops for Ladies.
Giving the gift of technology to these ladies and girls helps them conquer the digital divide and reach for better futures. Thank you!
Tara Michener reads from her book, “Who I am not What I am,” about the importance of diversity to children and mothers at Lighthouse PATH in Pontiac.
Jason Michener talks to kids about how to illustrate and draw what you see.
Sarah Worsham, Audrey Walker, Tara Michener & Chelsea Rodgers at Lighthouse PATH in Pontiac.