In June 2023, the Karsh Center launched our brand new Community Technology Center! Thanks to the generous support of Spectrum and the State of California, the Karsh Center purchased 25 laptops and additional equipment to allow us to provide digital literacy classes and open computer lab time in our multipurpose room.

Starting in June, Program Manager Michelle Lopez taught five introductory classes focused on basic computer skills that included creating and saving documents, using search engines, emailing, printing, uploading photos, and creating PDF documents.  

Based on the feedback from these workshops and in response to the interest and learning needs of our clients, we connected with Los Angeles City College to host a computer basics course in our Community Technology Center. The class began in September and runs through January, meeting once a week.  The class is accessible for students with limited English proficiency, and the objective is not only to impart technical skills, but to meet our clients where they’re at, ensuring inclusivity. The curriculum covers operating systems, web browsers, office applications, and basic computer components and functions. 

  • Aleyda F., a student in this program, expressed, “These laptops are very accessible, and I don’t have to carry my old laptop around, which is very heavy. These are very lightweight and accessible. It helps me not worry about purchasing one while I learn in the class.”
  • Carmen C. shared her perspective, “I am not tech savvy, which is why I have been going to the computer class, and having access to the laptops helps me learn so I can help my children with their homework. It’s a relief knowing I don’t need to save up right now for a computer.”
  • Reyna F. shared, “These laptops are a huge help. Laptops are very expensive, and having them available in the class is great so that I can focus on learning the class. I would love to learn how to create flyers, I have a small business and I am learning a lot by having access to these laptops. Even learning to take photos on laptops! It’s such a huge relief to have access to the laptop, you have no idea.”

The Karsh Center looks forward to more programming through the Community Technology Center in 2024, including additional digital literacy classes, open computer lab time, and more. We are grateful to Spectrum and the State of California, as well as our Collaborator Los Angeles City College, whose support has been instrumental in bringing our Community Technology Center to life.