Note: This is a full-time ACC AmeriCorps position with Southwestern Commission.
About the American Connection Corps:
The American Connection Corps (ACC), an AmeriCorps program of Lead For America (LFA), is a service fellowship program aimed at helping communities build the digital connectivity necessary to expand opportunity and economic mobility, ranging from healthcare access to quality employment.
ACC Members serve with locally-rooted organizations, helping address the digital divide and strengthen access to opportunity. Through their service, they gain hands-on experience, build in-demand skills, and explore career pathways while making a tangible impact in their communities.
About Southwestern Commission
Today, the Southwestern Commission continues to connect member governments with critical funding and resources, adapting as traditional state and federal grants have given way to a broader mix of public and private loans, nonprofit grants, and philanthropic support. While technology has made communication and grant administration more efficient, the Commission remains focused on strengthening intergovernmental relationships through collaboration, professional facilitation, conflict resolution, and dispute mediation. As Southwestern North Carolina experiences continued population growth and increasing demands on local services and infrastructure, the Commission serves as a vital regional partner in areas such as land use planning, economic and workforce development, services for an aging population, and other shared community priorities.
Position Overview
The Digital Navigator will support the Southwestern Commission's efforts to expand digital inclusion and strengthen digital literacy throughout Western North Carolina. This position will provide individualized technology assistance, support the delivery of educational workshops, and participate in community outreach to help older adults, underserved populations, and individuals seeking employment develop essential digital skills. Through partnerships with senior centers, workforce development organizations, and other community agencies, and under appropriate staff guidance and supervision, the Digital Navigator will help individuals gain confidence in using technology, access essential online resources, and become more independent in an increasingly digital world. This role will contribute to building stronger, more connected communities by reducing barriers to technology and creating opportunities for lifelong learning.
Key Responsibilities
Digital Literacy Education and Individual Assistance
Provide one-on-one technology assistance to community members, with an emphasis on older adults, underserved populations, and individuals with limited digital experience.
Develop and deliver digital literacy workshops, in coordination with program staff, covering smartphone and computer basics, email communication, internet navigation, online safety, scam prevention, and accessing essential digital services.
Assist individuals in developing practical technology skills that promote independence, confidence, and continued learning.
Provide patient, individualized instruction that meets participants at their current skill levels and addresses their specific technology needs.
Community Outreach and Partnership Development
Collaborate with senior centers, libraries, workforce development organizations, and community partners to expand access to digital literacy resources.
Support community outreach events, educational programs, and awareness initiatives that promote digital inclusion throughout the region.
Identify barriers to technology access and work alongside community partners and program staff to develop practical, community-centered solutions.
Support relationship-building with local organizations to expand educational opportunities and connect individuals with available resources.
Program Development and Coordination
Assist in developing accessible educational materials,…