Digital Bridge Initiative
%20%26%20Registration%20Remains%20Open-%20Digital%20Bridge%20Initiative%20.png)
Bridging Generations Through Technology
The Digital Bridge Initiative is a digital literacy project led by the Virgin Islands Youth Advocacy Coalition, Inc. (VIYAC) and funded by AARP through the annual AARP Challenge Grant. This intergenerational project brings together youth and older adults across the Virgin Islands to promote digital inclusion and community connection.
Youth participants help older adults develop essential technology skills while gaining experience in teaching, leadership, and civic service.
💡 Program Goals
-
Promote digital literacy among older adults in the Virgin Islands
-
Empower youth through leadership and community service
-
Foster intergenerational learning and connection
👥 Who Should Apply?
-
We’re looking for Virgin Islands residents aged 50+ who:
-
Have a genuine interest in learning how to use technology
-
Are open to being guided step-by-step by trained youth ambassadors
-
Want to gain confidence using digital tools like smartphones, tablets, or computers
💡 Program Benefits
Participants will learn to:
📞 Stay in touch with loved ones using video calls, email, and messaging
🛡️ Avoid online scams and protect personal information
🏥 Access telehealth and manage medical appointments online
🏛️ Navigate government websites and services
💳 Build basic financial literacy skills
🧯 Prepare for emergencies with digital tools
And much more!
🗓️ Program Format
3 Saturday Morning In-Person Sessions
Small class sizes for personal support
3 Cohorts will run between mid-August and mid-November
🤝 Sponsors
-
Primary Sponsor: AARP (AARP Challenge Grant), AARP Virgin Islands
-
Other Sponsor: Masters Concrete, Fly The Whale
-
Media Sponsors: West Gyul, Virgin Islands Source, Caledonia Communications (WSTX Radio- AM970 / FM100.3 Station & Hosts: Abdul Ali, Verdel L. Petersen, WTJX Virgin Islands Public Broadcasting System, NPR 93.1FM, Host Neville James and WAXJ 103.5FM and WDHP 1620AM Reef Broadcasting, Host St. Claire Williams)
📋 Registration remains open until capacity is reached!
If you have any questions, you can contact us via email: 📩viyouthvote@gmail.com
📌 Second Cohort (Training) Start Date: The second training will begin:
Saturday, September 20th (St. Croix) and on September 27th (St. Thomas)
📌 Class Schedule: Each participant will attend three (3) Saturday morning sessions, each lasting 2 to 2.5 hours.
📌 Cohort Placement: You will be placed in a group based on your registration date and class availability.
📌 Limited Seats: Classes are small to allow for individual support.