On April 23rd, 2025, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP), GoodKids MadCity Englewood (GKMC-E), and Evening Star M.B. Church came together to co-host a basic computer skills class for seniors at the church. While digital literacy work isn’t new for SWOP, this marked the first collaboration of its kind between the three organizations — made possible by Evening Star recently joining SWOP as a member institution.

Led by SWOP’s Digital Organizer, Briana Washington, the class brought together a group of seniors ready to take on the challenge of learning new technology. From turning on devices and navigating the internet to setting up email accounts and understanding online safety, participants began building essential digital skills that will help them stay connected and access resources in today’s digital world.

This partnership was rooted in the shared commitment of all three organizations to empower community members and work collectively to meet local needs. With both GKMC-E and Evening Star M.B. Church now part of SWOP’s organizing network, the collaboration represents the power of grassroots relationships and mutual support in action.

“This was just the first session,” said Briana Washington. “But it’s exciting to see the enthusiasm and the relationships being built here. We’ll start with the basics and eventually work our way through Microsoft Word, Excel, and how to confidently navigate technology.”

As the program continues, SWOP, GKMC-E, and Evening Star M.B. Church look forward to growing this effort and providing even more opportunities for seniors to learn, connect, and thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

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