Monument Futures: Computer Program

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About the Program The Women's Technology Empowerment Program forms a critical part of our overall economic development strategy, because technology and the internet are the engines of economic development. Computer proficiency is a critical skill for most jobs, and the use of computers and the Internet is rapidly changing the skills employers expect, the way people get jobs, and the way communities solve problems. However, affordable, quality computer training has generally not been available to low-income, immigrant women with limited English proficiency. Without training, many women lack the confidence and skills to apply for jobs with better wages. Furthermore, computers open up opportunities for women to start home-based businesses. Students will learn to make smart use of the internet to market and manage businesses that could range from computer servicing to crafts, to catering, to real estate sales. In its first year, the Women's Technology Empowerment Program will serve at least 100 low income Latina women. Classes will range from beginner to intermediate levels, and (guided by student interest) will include Windows XP, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and Computer Repair. Like Caminos, we will require that all students learn English and that they use English language software. Both Monument Futures and our partner organizations will provide ESL classes. The trainings will be in Spanish but the language of software will be in English.
OUR MISSION To create and empower a Learning Community through Technology. Students will feel proud that they are able to learn easily. Students will use technology as a way to improve their lives. Students will use technology to be part of the community. The Community will see immigrants as assets and contributors. OUR GOALS Develop standards-based curricula in a wide range of subjects. Provide professional development for Latina woman. Increase student access to technology and online resources. Provide technology training and support for woman in low-income areas. Devise techniques for assisting Latina woman in developing computer-based instruction. Develop new approaches to measuring the impact of educational technology on student learning. WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY Equips Women with Marketable, Cutting-Edge IT Skills. Provides Women Access to Industry Standard. Prepares Women for IT Careers and Well-Paying Jobs. Leads to Greater Economic Security and Independence. Allows Women to Contribute to the Development of the IT Sector in their Communities. Produces Leaders, Role Models and Mentors for Other Women.
Students will have the skills to be employed in jobs that require or rely heavily on computer use, and they will have the self-confidence to excel at these types of jobs. Families, non-profit organizations, and minority-owned businesses will receive donated refurbished products that have current, functioning operating systems. Students will learn practical, transferable skills that they may use for future employment opportunities or that they may use to start and manage small businesses of their own. Customers of Monument Futures Computer Services will have their computers and networks repaired at a cost that is commensurate with their resources. Students will further gain experience by working off-site, including organizational skills, cost estimation, and working in a variety of settings. Students will gain knowledge of a variety of issues, including women's health, effective communication skills, interviewing techniques, labor laws, immigrant rights, financial management, and other issues. They will receive assistance in locating internship and permanent job opportunities, and will attend job fairs. Students will be fully prepared for office and administrative employment as well for the fields of computer service and multi-media art and design. Students will be connected with other leadership opportunities in the community provided by Monument Futures and its partner organizations. These include Monument Futures Leadership Teams, the MCP Neighborhood Action Teams, Las Platicas, the Financial Action Community Team and the First Five Center Advisory Committee.