When the Harris YMCA launched its South Boulevard Initiative (SBI) in 2014, it was rooted in one powerful principle: listen first. That approach began with a community needs assessment in 2013—and has continued to guide the Y’s work ever since.
In December 2022, the team conducted a new needs assessment focused on the South Boulevard corridor. One answer stood out—over and over again. Families, particularly immigrant and predominantly Spanish-speaking Latino households, were struggling with digital tools: school platforms, email, telehealth, and job applications. The pandemic had pushed daily life online, but not everyone had the knowledge or resources to keep up.
In response, the YMCA launched a new digital literacy program in 2023 in partnership with the Center for Digital Equity (CDE). The goal was to meet people where they are—starting with instruction in Spanish, accessible technology, and a welcoming space to learn.
More Than a Class
The first session launched in Fall 2023 with 10 students. Today, over 80 community members have participated, learning how to use email, navigate the internet, schedule appointments, and access their children’s school platforms—all through CDE’s NorthStar curriculum.
The program’s growth has been fueled by increased access to laptops (provided by CDE and E2D), as well as the strength of the partnership itself. A fourth session was added in 2025, and capacity grew from 10 to 12 students per cohort. Waitlists and word of mouth point to even greater demand.
But beyond the numbers, the program is changing lives.
“One of our students, a woman in her 60s, had never received a certificate before. After six weeks of working so hard, she passed her first assessment—and when we handed her that certificate, she cried. She was so proud of herself. We all were. That’s what this work is about—making sure everyone feels capable and celebrated."
Partnership Rooted in Trust
For Amy Crippen, Senior Program Director at the Center for Digital Equity, this partnership represents what’s possible when community trust and tailored digital support come together.
“Digital access isn’t just about having a device—it’s about feeling safe and supported while you learn. The YMCA is already that space for so many people. By working together, we’ve been able to grow what’s possible—from supporting adult learners to exploring new youth-focused opportunities.”
The YMCA provides the trusted space; CDE brings the tools, curriculum, and long-term commitment to digital equity. Together, we’re closing gaps in access while creating new pathways for belonging, learning, and community connection.
Partnership in Action
This work reflects what happens when mission-driven organizations align on values and build something with the community, not just for it.
“We can’t do it alone,” Ana emphasized. “There’s so much our community needs—and organizations like CDE help us fill those gaps in meaningful ways.”
CDE approaches every collaboration as a conversation, not a transaction. Whether it’s co-developing a new initiative, sharing resources, or simply listening to what’s needed, the goal is to lift up community priorities and make digital tools work for real people in real life.
Looking Ahead
The success of the South Boulevard pilot has sparked interest across the YMCA network. Other branches are now exploring how they can bring similar programs to their communities.
It’s a reminder that digital inclusion is not just a tech issue—it’s a people issue. And when we work together, we can create lasting change—one student, one class, one connection at a time.