Computers In Our Future Toolkits, Culminating Report Now Available

[George Gundrey]

Computers In Our Future Toolkits, Culminating Report Now Available

Computers In Our Future (CIOF) has released several new resources based on
nearly four years of work with community technology centers in 11 low-income
communities throughout California. These resources include a series of
"Toolkits" with practical tips and examples for practitioners, and a newly
published report of lessons learned that was written for corporate and
community leaders, funders and policy makers. The Toolkits and the report
are available online at www.ciof.org.

** Computers In Our Future CTC Toolkits Available Online **

After nearly four years of running CTCs, with some experimentation, some
mistakes and many successes, the people involved with CIOF learned a great
many lessons. These lessons range from big picture program issues like how
to structure open access or how to effectively fundraise to nitty-gritty
day-to-day issues like which math software is most interesting to 10 year
olds or how to keep CTC patrons from deleting important system files.
Toolkits topics include:
* CIOF Center Startup Checklist.
* Sustainability Checklist
* Center Management and Operations Toolkits and Resources
* Curriculum and Instruction Resources
* Employment Programs
* Computers and Technology
* CTC Policy Advocacy

The toolkits are available at http://www.ciof.org/toolkits/

** New CIOF Report Lays Out Lessons and Implications for State and Community
Leaders **

In addition to our Tookits, CIOF has published a summary report for policy
makers, corporate and community leaders, and the philanthropic sector that
shares the lessons of CIOF and calls on policy makers to support
community-based efforts to address the digital divide. The report
addresses effective CTC practices (and lessons learned) in community
settings, in the centers themselves, and as participants in a policy-making
process. It then offers suggestions for what you can do to support CTCs as
an essential strategy for bridging the technology gap. The report,
"Computers In Our Future: What Works in Closing the Technology Gap?" is
available online at http://www.ciof.org/report-rls.htm

** About Computers In Our Future **

CIOF is a four-year demonstration project initially funded by The California
Wellness Foundation to establish and support CTCs in 11 low-income
communities throughout California. The centers provide access to technology
and opportunities to learn to use it productively. They also serve as
community resources and advocate on community technology issues.

The Toolkits and What Works report were coordinated by a partnership of
three organizations -- Community Partners, The Children's Partnership and
CompuMentor -- with the input and assistance of representatives from the 11
CIOF centers.

For a list of center locations or more information, visit http://www.ciof.org.

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