Addressing the digital divide
Beacon of Connectivity: AT&T Opens a New Connected Learning Center in Grand Rapids
Connecting Older Adults in Grand Rapids with Laptops and Digital Literacy Training
Addressing the digital divide
Connecting Older Adults in Grand Rapids with Laptops and Digital Literacy Training
March 31, 2026
Key insights
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In Grand Rapids recently, we teamed up with Compudopt to provide 100 laptops to seniors affected by the digital divide.
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And because access to technology and the skills to use it confidently go hand in hand, we also hosted a digital literacy training with Rebrand Cities. The goal: help older adults build their digital skills and navigate the online world more effectively and confidently through educational programs and AT&T resources.
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Opened last September, the AT&T Connected Learning Center at Baxter offers free access to digital resources – including high-speed AT&T Fiber internet, Wi-Fi, Dell computers, and educational and digital literacy resources.
For older Americans, community and connection are essential – especially to help stave off loneliness and social isolation.
In today’s digital world, technology can make life more convenient, safer, and more connected to loved ones. Yet older adults are the demographic least likely to be online, for a variety of reasons.
At AT&T, our corporate responsibility work is dedicated to bridging that digital divide – especially for older adults and those most vulnerable. We’re already more than halfway to our goal of investing $5 billion by 2030 to help narrow the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability, and safe adoption.
In Grand Rapids recently, we teamed up with Compudopt to provide 100 laptops to seniors affected by the digital divide.
And because access to technology and the skills to use it confidently go hand in hand, we also hosted a digital literacy training with Rebrand Cities. The goal: help older adults build their digital skills and navigate the online world more effectively and confidently through educational programs and AT&T resources.
Training topics ranged from basic technology skills – like navigating websites and using email – to staying safe online and avoiding scams and fraud.
The event was held in collaboration with the Baxter Community Center – the site of AT&T’s newest Connected Learning Center.
“At Baxter Community Center, we see every day how important connection is for our seniors – whether it’s staying in touch with loved ones, accessing resources, or participating fully in community life,” said Sonja Forte, Executive Director, Baxter Community Center. “In today’s digital age, our seniors not only need to have access to devices, but also the skills and knowledge to use them. These laptops from AT&T, along with today’s digital literacy training, will help our seniors build confidence, strengthen their digital skills, and stay connected in meaningful ways.”
Sonja Forte
Executive Director
Baxter Community Center
Opened last September, the AT&T Connected Learning Center at Baxter offers free access to digital resources – including high-speed AT&T Fiber internet, Wi-Fi, Dell computers, and educational and digital literacy resources.
Read more about our Connected Learning Center at the Baxter Community Center!
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