Net Literacy: Children Take the Lead

Kids bridge the digital divide by helping senior citizens learn to navigate the internet.  Net Literacy was founded by middle school students in 2003.  The organization has since developed a series of digital literacy projects: Senior Connects, Safe Connects, Financial Connects, and many more. Net Literacy has made computer access possible to more than 170,000 people with a small army of tech-savvy, student volunteers.

"One hundred million Americans do not have high speed Internet at home, and 18 million Americans live in areas with little or no broadband infrastructure.  Seniors, minorities, low-income and rural Americans remain disproportionately offline. "

The Net Literacy mission to get the digitally disconnected engaged has included students refurbishing 15,000 plus computers in just the last four years.

Publicolor: Brightening Hopes, Inspiring Futures

Publicolor uses "color, collaboration, design, and the painting process to re-engage students in their education, schools and communities to ultimately transform them into productive members of our workforce."

Publicolor offers a full range of opportunities through their programs.  The nonprofit sponsors a Paint Club.  Students who participate in the Paint Club can become part of the COLOR Club which provides opportunities for leadership, learning to think critically about the future, and the opportunity to earn a stipend. Next Step Prep involves  middle school through high school kids in literacy immersion and SAT preparation.  Next Step works with high school juniors and seniors on college placement and mentoring..  The Fresh Coat Club revisits former Publicolor projects for touch-ups and allows students to earn an income.

You Can Adopt-a-Classroom

The nonprofit Adopt-A-Classroom (dot) org wants student success and sees empowering teachers as a way to make it happen.  With community partners and donor funds Adopt-a-Classroom sees that teachers have purchasing power to get the resources needed to make the most of the learning environment.

Donors have the opportunity to interact with a teacher throughout the school year.  So, people can see the difference they've made in the lives of students.

"In most instances, donors receive thank you packages, artwork and other student created projects. Donors may choose to support the classroom in ways beyond the financial contribution, such as visiting the classroom, chaperoning field trips and other activities that are coordinated directly between donor and teacher."

Adopt-A-Classroom directs 100% of all donations earmarked for classrooms to the classroom teacher