Missouriar - City of St. Louis Recognized as One of the Nation's Digital Inclusion Trailblazers

Trending...

~ The City of St. Louis has been recognized as a 2024 Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). This prestigious national program acknowledges the city's efforts to bridge the digital divide through initiatives such as free community WiFi and digital learning labs.

Mayor Tishaura O. Jones expressed her pride in the city's efforts, stating, "For St. Louis to thrive, we must make it possible for all St. Louisans to be connected to digital resources that are becoming increasingly necessary across our society, whether you're a student, a parent, or a senior citizen." She also commended the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) for their work in connecting residents to free WiFi and digital literacy resources.

The city's commitment to closing the digital divide is evident in its Digital Inclusion Action Plan, which falls under the Economic Justice Action Plan created by Mayor Jones and implemented by SLDC. The provision of Digital Equity is a key initiative of SLDC's Economic Empowerment pillar.

According to SLDC President and CEO Neal Richardson, investing in digital equity programs like community WiFi allows residents, businesses, and community organizations to participate in the 21st-century economy.

More on Missouriar

St. Louis joins 59 other municipal, county, and regional governments across the US in being named a 2024 Digital Trailblazer by NDIA. The city was specifically recognized as one of 34 Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazers, which is considered the highest honor awarded by NDIA. These communities have successfully integrated digital inclusion into their government operations and are leading the way in innovation.

In today's increasingly connected society, access to affordable high-speed internet, devices, and digital skills training is crucial not only for participation but also for finding opportunities to thrive independently. As such, these Trailblazers serve as models for other local governments looking to build their own digital inclusion ecosystems.

The City of St. Louis achieved Trailblazer status by prioritizing digital inclusion for its residents through various initiatives, including the creation of the St. Louis Digital Inclusion Action Plan in partnership with SLDC. They have also launched free community WiFi in seven parks and along the Dr. Martin Luther King Drive corridor, as well as Learning Labs and Digital Navigators at four City recreation centers to provide access to computers, printing, and technical support.

More on Missouriar

The city has also been actively involved in the #ConnectSTL local coalition and engaging with the community to address digital inclusion needs. This year, they will be launching digital literacy classes to equip residents with the necessary skills to navigate and thrive in the digital world.

NDIA's Digital Inclusion Trailblazers program has been setting the national standard for excellent digital inclusion work since 2016. Each applicant's materials are thoroughly verified for accuracy and assessed for community impact before being posted on NDIA's website's interactive map and searchable database. By openly sharing these materials, NDIA aims to provide resources for community advocates and local governments to continue learning, connect with other trailblazing communities, and develop their own digital inclusion solutions.

St. Louis' recognition as a Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer is a testament to their dedication towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all residents have access to essential digital resources. As technology continues to play a significant role in our daily lives, it is crucial for communities to prioritize digital inclusion efforts like those of St. Louis.

Filed Under: Government, City

0 Comments

Latest on Missouriar