WHO WE ARE
Vinfen partnered with seven organizations to form the Human Services Alliance for Digital Equity. The Alliance, led by Vinfen, was one of three entities to receive a first-round Digital Equity Partnership grant from the Massachusetts Broadband Institute, a division of Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech). Alliance partners include Advocates, Behavioral Health Network, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Department of Psychiatry, Boston Center for Independent Living, Clinical Support Options, Open Sky, and Riverside Community Care.
WHAT'S IN A NAME?
As we work to engage our various stakeholders and clients, we have created a name that communicates the true essence of what we hope to achieve. “TechConnect Network” aims to increase digital inclusion and connect people with disabilities and mental health challenges to the devices and skills they need.
When describing the partnership and the statewide impact and reach we have, we are “TechConnect Network” (the Network). When individual partnership organizations promote their services, they will refer to themselves as “TechConnect,” with their organization name following. For example, “TechConnect: Powered by Advocates.”
OUR MISSION
We have seen firsthand how technology and skills can dramatically improve the lives of people with disabilities. When given the opportunity, people with disabilities embrace all that technology has to offer.
TECHNOLOGY CAN:
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Improve access to medical and behavioral healthcare through telehealth (people who can’t utilize telehealth experience longer waits and less access)
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Open new employment opportunities
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Improve daily living and executive function by using reminders and calendar apps to keep appointments, maintain a clean house, and observe good personal hygiene
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Enhance communication using text-to-speech and speech-to-text apps
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Support mental health recovery by using specific symptom management and relaxation apps
DIGITAL INCLUSION AND EQUITY
The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) has defined digital inclusion as the activities necessary to ensure that all individuals and communities, including the most disadvantaged, have access to and use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).
THIS INCLUDES FIVE ELEMENTS:
Affordable, robust broadband internet
Internet-enabled devices that meet the needs of the individual
Access to digital literacy training
Quality technical support
Applications and online content designed to enable and encourage self– sufficiency
The NDIA defines digital equity as a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy. Digital equity is necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services.
The eight partner organizations that make up the TechConnect network have teamed up to provide digital inclusion services across all parts of Massachusetts. Please consult the below map to see which organization is supporting your region.
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