In partnership with American Connection Corps and Northstar Digital Literacy, Generation West Virginia is addressing the digital divide that prevents residents from accessing modern economic opportunities.
actively building digital skills.
spanning workforce development agencies to library-based programs.
Training ranges from basic computer literacy to job-ready proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Digital literacy is no longer optional; it’s the foundation for workforce participation. Without these skills, West Virginians cannot access remote work opportunities, apply for jobs online, or advance in increasingly technology-dependent fields.
Through the support of the Claude Benedum Foundation, these train-the-trainer resources create a sustainable model: each trained partner can continue serving their communities long after initial investment, multiplying impact across the region.
With continued philanthropic support, GWV plans to expand this program to additional community organizations throughout 2026, ensuring every West Virginian has access to the digital skills needed for economic opportunity.
Library Director Paul Norko and the staff at Upshur County Public Library witness the digital divide firsthand through daily patron questions about accessing online resources. Through a partnership with the American Connection Corps, GWV helped UCPL implement the Northstar Digital Literacy curriculum. Combined with an AARP grant, this enabled UCPL to launch comprehensive digital literacy courses in 2025. Across several locations spanning Upshur, Lewis, and Braxton Counties, Cassie Hull and Paul Norko are delivering literacy training while also preparing volunteer instructors and community members to teach others. GWV continues to provide ongoing support through the American Connection Corps and is collaborating with UCPL to identify funding opportunities that will expand the program throughout the Upshur County Service Center territory.