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Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County will bring new mobile computer labs, digital skills training, and individualized technology support directly to communities throughout Chautauqua County through Rural Spark-Ed, a regional initiative led by Literacy West NY, Inc.
Funded by a $644,230 grant awarded to Literacy West by New York State through Empire State Development's ConnectALL division, Rural Spark-Ed is designed to make technology access and practical digital support more readily available in rural communities. Literacy West NY leads the initiative across Western New York, with Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County serving as the local partner for Chautauqua County.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Through ConnectALL, New York is making sure every resident has the tools and skills to participate fully in today’s economy. Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County knows this community and will bring hands-on support directly to residents in one of the state’s largest rural counties. Whether someone is applying for a job, meeting with a doctor online or learning to use a computer for the first time, Rural Spark-Ed will help them get there.”
"This is an exciting opportunity to bring technology directly into rural communities and make digital access easier, more practical, and more personal," said Lisa Lee, CEO of Literacy West NY. "Rural Spark-Ed gives residents a place to learn, ask questions, build confidence, and get help with the technology they need for work, education, healthcare, and everyday life."
Through Rural Spark-Ed, Chautauqua County residents will be able to receive free support with: Basic computer, internet, and email skills; Job searches, resumes, and online application; online education and training; telehealth and digital services; access to government and community resources; online safety and digital confidence; technology skills for work and daily life.
The mobile computer labs will travel to trusted locations throughout the county, including libraries, community centers, municipalities, workforce sites, schools, and other gathering places.
"For us, one of the most exciting parts of Rural Spark-Ed is being able to take services directly into the communities where people live," said Julie LaGrow, Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County. "Chautauqua County is large and rural, and transportation or distance can make it difficult for someone to get the help they need. We want people to know that it is okay to have questions about technology. Whether someone needs help applying for a job, using email, accessing an online service, or simply learning how to use a computer with more confidence, our goal is to meet them where they are and help."
Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County is identifying community organizations interested in serving as Rural Spark-Ed host sites. Host partners will help expand local access by providing a welcoming location, electricity, and regularly scheduled space where the mobile lab can meet with residents.
There is no expectation that residents will already be comfortable with technology before participating. Rural Spark-Ed is intended to provide practical, individualized assistance for people at a wide range of skill levels.
Mobile lab locations, schedules, workshops, and other learning opportunities in Chautauqua County will be announced as local host sites are established.
Rural Spark-Ed is a New York State-funded mobile computer lab initiative led by Literacy West NY, Inc. in partnership with Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County. The initiative brings technology access, digital skills instruction, and individualized support into rural communities across Western New York.
Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County provides adult literacy, education, and digital skills support throughout Chautauqua County.