viNGN To Launch Volunteer Initiative At St. Andrew’s Church Public Computer Center

ST. THOMAS — The Virgin Islands Next Generation Network (viNGN) will host what it’s calling “Hour of Code” and a presentation on Cybersecurity, also known as computer or IT security for families, a press release the government-owned entity issued this morning has revealed.

The event will be held at the St. Andrew’s Church Public Computer Center located at #50 First Avenue, End of Ninth here on October 22 between 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. The initiative is part of viNGN’s Sustainable Broadband Adoption Program — a comprehensive effort intended to provide digital literacy and job skills training, launch a telework program, and conduct a multifaceted outreach campaign to increase broadband subscribership and stimulate job growth in the U.S. Virgin Islands, according to the release.

“In order for the Virgin Islands to fully realize the benefits of the high-speed broadband provided by viNGN, we have to ensure that all of our Virgin Islanders are prepared to fully embrace this new technology as creators and not only as users,” viNGN’s President and CEO Dr. Tonjia Coverdale said. “As such, we remain committed to our PCC initiative. However, we need the help of Virgin Islanders like you, who want to make a difference in our Territory.  We cannot do it without you. Please consider volunteering a few moments of your time which will go a long way in launching us into our Next Generation.”

The firm’s Community Program Manager, Anita Davis added: “viNGN seeks the community’s support in helping to bridge the Digital Divide in our community. Even as we provide for advanced professional skills training and education for young people, we realize that many adults lack the basic skills needed to take a computer course online, communicate with loved ones, or manage their internet-based financial, health and social resources. Volunteers are needed to provide assistance, coach, teach, connect or even adopt a Public Computer Center.”

Along with a community address from the Department of Education STEM Director, Dr. Dora Cerge, viNGN’s PCC volunteer initiative, “!nspire” will be introduced for all community members interested in signing up for volunteer opportunities. New or limited computer users will also have an opportunity learn more about the, “Absolute Beginners Computer Lab.”