Easterseals Northeast Indiana is helping people build confidence, independence and job readiness through a new Digital Workforce & Inclusion Initiative that uses the agency’s E-Gaming Labs for hands-on learning.
The four-year initiative is designed to expand access to technology and digital skills training for people with disabilities, young adults, low-income individuals and rural residents. The program is being offered in Angola and Fort Wayne, where participants are learning practical skills they can use at home, in the community and in the workplace.
The initiative combines Northstar Digital Literacy training, workforce-focused digital skills, work-based learning and a structured device-lending program to help remove barriers to participation. Easterseals Northern Indiana gained access to the Northstar program through National Easterseals and Comcast as part of a digital literacy grant.
Participants in Angola have already completed several Northstar assessments and earned micro-credentials recognizing their progress. Across the program, participants have shown an average 40 percent improvement in tested knowledge and skills after taking part in the program. Many received certificates for completing specific digital literacy topics.
“The lessons are well thought-out and very helpful for daily life,” said Arica, who has participated since the first week of the program. “I am excited to continue with these classes.”
Training begins with fundamental computer skills, including basic computer and laptop operation, internet navigation, safe searching, malware awareness, online safety, scam awareness and password management.
The program also supports digital independence by helping participants learn how to use smartphones for banking and budgeting, accessing telehealth appointments, creating and managing email accounts, and finding community resources online.
Workforce development is another major focus. Participants receive training in resume development, online job applications, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, basic Excel, virtual interview preparation, digital professionalism and proper email communication.
By combining accessible instruction, credentialing and real-world practice, the Digital Workforce & Inclusion Initiative is strengthening digital access and employment readiness across Northeast Indiana. The goal is not only to teach technology skills, but also to help participants build the confidence and independence needed to use those skills in daily life and future employment.