When the Center for Digital Equity (CDE) introduced a digital skills class to Parktowne Terrace, a senior housing community in Charlotte, the goal was straightforward: to make learning accessible, welcoming, and conveniently available at residents’ doorsteps. But for one resident, Ms. Evelyn Stinson, the class became more than just a learning opportunity—it became a path toward independence.
A Step Toward Independence
Evelyn hadn’t planned to participate. She stopped by at the end of the first class to see what it was about. After a quick chat with the instructor, she made a decision: she’d come back for the next one. That small step turned into six weeks of learning, growth, and connection.
“I needed to learn how to be independent and do things for myself. If someone emails me now, I know how to email back. And I’m proud of that.”
The CDE team often hears from older adults that everything—from healthcare to housing to family communication—now happens online. Evelyn had heard it too. But this time, the difference was that someone showed up to teach her, patiently and without judgment, right where she lived.
Celebrating Small Wins
Ms. Evelyn’s instructor, Denya Isabelle-Davis, is a Senior Digital Navigator with CDE. She remembers the moment Evelyn finally sent her first email.
“She had been working toward it for weeks. When she finally sent it, you could hear the joy in her voice. It was huge. For her—and us.”
More Than A Class
The relationship between Evelyn and Denya is what makes this work so impactful. CDE doesn’t just provide technology training—it creates space for community, trust, and confidence to grow. The Digital Navigator model prioritizes listening, encouragement, and consistency.
“Many of the seniors we work with are trying this for the first time,” Denya shared. “We’re not rushing anyone. We take the time people need—whether that’s 10 minutes or 10 sessions. What matters is that they feel supported, seen, and capable.”
Evelyn now has her own laptop and is eager to keep learning. She hopes the classes will return to Parktowne Terrace soon and that her neighbors will give them a try as well.