PARTNERING WITH TGH IN BOSTON & GREATER BOSTON
Successful collaborations are at the heart of the Tech Goes Home program. Since 2010, TGH has partnered with more than 230 schools and local community sites across Boston to run the TGH program.
TGH serves as program manager, recruiting and training individuals from the partner organizations to run the Internet and life skills training classes. TGH provides the course model, handpicked curriculum, marketing material, course volunteers, as well as a partially subsidized computer for each participant (participants pay a $50 co-pay). TGH also collects data before, during, and after each course to increase program efficacy. TGH supports trainers throughout the course via class visits, meetings, and email.
The partner organizations provide course trainers, classroom space, and, if possible, computers on which to run the course. The course trainers recruit participants, select curriculum pieces based on the needs of their participants, and schedule and run the training sessions. This localized approach enables participants to develop strong support networks and lasting bonds with trainers and fellow participants.
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To connect with Tech Goes Home Chattanooga, click here.
STEPS TO BECOMING A TGH SITE
1. Speak to one of our staff
TGH’s goal is to connect your community members to a world of opportunity by addressing the three components of the digital divide: internet skills training, hardware, and access to reliable internet. Our staff can answer any questions you might have about bringing TGH to your organization. Complete this form to set up a conversation.
2. Identify your TGH trainers
Identify at least one staff member from your organization who can run the 15-hour Tech Goes Home training. We recommend two trainers per TGH course. These trainers need not be computer experts but should be comfortable using the internet, particularly tools such as email, Google Docs, and search engines. TGH Trainers help participants learn about and sign up for low cost Internet through tghconnect.org and handle administrative duties related to the course including tracking attendance and collecting participant forms. Most importantly, they should be welcoming, patient, and passionate about helping folks learn life-changing skills!
3. Complete a site application online
Once you have spoken with our staff, TGH will email you an application to become a new partner site for you to complete. Please note, we have limited funding for each program and interest is increasing rapidly, so the sooner you apply, the better. Completing an application does not guarantee approval. If you have completed the two steps above but didn't receive a new site application link, please email program[at]techgoeshome.org.
4. Receive approval to offer a TGH course at your site
Once an application is received, someone from TGH will contact you about your site. If you’re not approved for the upcoming program season, we may be able to approve your site at a future time.
5. Trainer(s) complete the “train the trainer” session with our staff
After your site has been approved, we will contact you to schedule a 2- to 3-hour training session for your trainer(s). Once your trainer(s) complete their training with us, they will be ready to schedule and plan their TGH course!