When Grassroots DC was founded in 2013, we planned to work exclusively on media production and training. However, because media production also requires basic computer skills, potential students who were not computer literate would be left out. To address this, we added basic computer training to our programming.
This was also entirely appropriate having been asked to set up operations in Potomac Gardens Public Housing Complex where Internet and computer access is limited. With the support of the resident council, Grassroots DC set up the Potomac Gardens Community Resource Center at 1227 G Street SE.
While we operated the center, Potomac Gardens’ residents received assistance creating resumes and flyers for community activities, conducting job searches and filling out on-line applications, completing homework for school and/or certification programs, training in basic computer operation and providing technical support to fledgling non-profits and individual entrepreneurs within Potomac Gardens itself.
In the summer of 2016, the Potomac Gardens Resident Council formed a partnership with Byte Back. They were able to upgrade the computers in the lab and in conjunction with the Resident Council have taken over operating the Resource Center. While Grassroots DC’s main headquarters are no longer located within Potomac Gardens, our work with residents on the documentary project Potomac Gardens Inside and Out is on-going. When the opportunity arises, we continue to offer workshops in resume writing and interviewing to public housing residents.
Because we recognize that many Grassroots DC members and program participants need basic computer training beyond what is provided in the Potomac Gardens Community Resource Center, we are happy to provide the basic computer and related curriculum to anyone who needs them here. Please click on the links below to download, print and distribute the materials as you see fit.
How to Avoid Getting a Computer Virus or Worm
St. Paul Community Literacy Consortium