Technology Programs
Mission
Technology Programs at Mount Hope Housing Company aim to strengthen the community by providing residents with the resources and knowledge necessary to be successful in a digital society.
Vision
By offering affordable communication services and computer training, Mount Hope Housing Company enables its residents to integrate technology into their lives. Community members will gain vital skills necessary for success in today's job market as well as learn how technology can be used as an educational tool, informational resource and means of simplifying tasks.
Programs
Affordable Communication Services
Mount Hope Housing Company has contracted with leading communication providers to bring affordable high-speed Internet and satellite television services to its residents. Each of Mount Hope's 1,250 units will be wired for these services when construction is complete.
To deliver these services, Mount Hope uses both hard-wired and wireless networks. The structure begins with a central wireless antenna that acts as a main distribution point. The antenna is connected to a T1 line for the Internet. The buildings are then connected to the distribution point using wireless links. Finally, the services are deployed to the residents via an Ethernet infrastructure. As a result, residents need simply to attach a cable from wall jacks to their computers to instantly begin accessing these affordable services.
Community Technology Center
The Mount Hope Community Technology Center will provide Internet access to community members who do not reside in Mount Hope-owned buildings. The center will feature a learning lab where computer training classes are held. In addition, the center will include a cyber cafe where community residents can make use of the center's business services, informational resources and high-tech equipment.
Digital Connectors
Digital Connectors are Mount Hope youth, between the ages of 14 and 19, who help accelerate the use of technology in the community. Participants will be trained to provide technological support to community residents who have home access to computers and the Internet. The Digital Connectors will receive training during workshops as well as mentoring by local technology leaders and business consultants. As a result, they will gain valuable job skills, experience, and relationships that will offer a first step towards a career in technology.
TechKnowledge
TechKnowledge provides computer training to families in the community. During a two-part course, students learn the basics of computer maintenance, Internet and email use, and word processing. Students also will learn about the Beehive, a website customized for Mount Hope community members and filled with resources covering a range of topics including family, money, and health. Computer training is a critical part of making full use of technology. For this reason, these computer classes are mandatory for each family that receives a computer through Mount Hope.
Bronx Technology Consortium for Older Adults
The goal of the Bronx Technology Consortium for Older Adults is to support a program where high school volunteers are trained to teach computer courses to low-income senior citizens. The high school students will receive a three-class Training for Trainers course and then co-teach a ten-week series of computer classes for seniors with support from experienced staff. The Institute serves two critical needs: the need to improve training and access to technology for senior citizens, and the need for young people to find meaningful opportunities for community service where they will learn and develop as they provide help to others.
Key Partners
Verizon Avenue
MDU Communications
One Economy
PerScholas
New York City's Non Profits and Assistance Corporation (NYCNAC)
Older Adults Technology Services (OATS)
Phipps Community Development Corp.
Contact :
Brenda D Jones
Vice President of Asset Building & Information Technology
718-299-7177 ext 12 Fax 718-299-5623
Brenda_Jones@Mounthopehousing.org