Tech Changemakers 2021-2022

Highlights

The 4-H Tech Changemakers made significant progress in closing the digital divide in the 2021-2022 year. As communities emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic, the urgent need and profound effects of limited technological access and skills were revealed. Thankfully, the Tech Changemakers stepped up to bridge these digital gaps with meaningful community impact. These dedicated teen leaders facilitated vital Grab and Go lessons for adults across a wide range of topics - from email basics to cybersecurity awareness to career development resources. Each workshop session enabled community members to build digital literacy and access greater opportunities.

Through their efforts, the Arizona cohort successfully reached its goal of making over 1,500 adult contacts statewide that year. The Tech Changemakers provided education and support to diverse populations, tearing down barriers standing in the way of digital inclusion. As the pandemic spotlighted the severity and breadth of tech disparity, the 4-H Tech Changemakers program rose to meet this pressing need. The 2021-2022 teen leaders and facilitators made tremendous strides toward the mission of digital equality and community building through technology. Their drive and compassion continue to uplift individuals today.

County Participation

AZ 4-H was committed to successfully implementing the 4-H Tech Changemakers Challenge (TCM). The program uses a teen-as-teachers approach with teen leaders learning digital skills to teach to adults. Through the 4-H Tech Changemakers program, at least 12 teens will become certified Tech Changemaker Counselors, and in addition, at least 30 teen 4-H members will support the Tech Changemakers Changemakers Counselors, and all 42 youth will work in partnership with their 4-H educator to use turnkey 'grab n' go' lesson plans to teach digital skills to adults in the community. The goal of the TCM project is for Arizona 4-H teen Tech Changemakers and support 4-H teen members to reach 1,500 rural adults with digital literacy skills enabling them to achieve greater economic opportunity. The counties that participated were Gila, Greenlee, Maricopa, Pinal, and Santa Cruz.

Copy of 4H-Tech-Changemakers-2021-Searching-for-Digital-Information.pdf

Gila

United in Digital Learning

The 4-H Tech Changemakers in Gila County developed a program serving both rural and semi-urban populations. Youth leaders taught essential computer skills and assisted seniors with technology adoption. Their efforts particularly focused on bridging the digital divide for local communities and supporting workforce development initiatives.

Greenlee

Rural Tech Training Excellence

Greenlee County's 4-H Tech Changemakers focused on serving their rural mining community's unique needs. Teen mentors provided one-on-one tutoring and small group sessions, teaching basic digital skills, online business development, and remote work capabilities. The program's intimate approach allowed for personalized attention that particularly benefited elderly residents and small business owners.

Maricopa County

Digital Literacy Initiative

In Maricopa County, the 4-H Tech Changemakers leveraged their urban setting to deliver digital literacy training across the Phoenix metropolitan area. Youth mentors offered workshops at community centers, libraries, and senior facilities. The program emphasized workforce development to provide practical technology training to diverse communities.

Pinal

Bringing New Opportunities

The 4-H Tech Changemakers program in Pinal County addressed digital literacy needs in rural and agricultural communities. Teen leaders conducted workshops at libraries and community centers and teaching essential computer skills. Their efforts helped adults adopt digital tools and assisted job seekers in developing necessary technical skills for the modern workforce.

Santa Cruz

Bridging the Digital Divide

The 4-H Tech Changemakers program paired skilled youth mentors with community members who needed support in developing digital literacy skills. Recognizing the diverse demographic makeup of Santa Cruz County, the program offered all classes in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for the region's significant Spanish-speaking population.

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