51¹ÙÍø.

From work as a dedicated volunteering middle schooler to my current role as a Bonner Scholar, I believed that I was very knowledgeable about nonprofits. 

However, my summer with E2D (Eliminate the Digital Divide) in Charlotte as part of 51¹ÙÍø’s Nonprofit Leadership Fellow (NPLF) program deepened my understanding significantly. 

E2D is a nonprofit organization dedicated to refurbishing laptops and providing computers to families and individuals in need at little to no cost. 

While I have volunteered with organizations focused on food insecurity, homelessness, and immigrant support, I had not previously considered digital equity as a crucial social issue. My experience has highlighted the importance of digital access and its profound impact on individuals and communities.

One project I worked on this summer was creating digital skills videos. Initially, I struggled because I couldn’t assume that everyone watching the videos would have the same level of knowledge as I do about using a laptop. I had to think back to when I first started using a laptop – covering basics like turning it on, using the keyboard, and connecting to the internet. This experience made me realize how privileged I was to have a laptop and to know how to use it. Reflecting on this, I understood the impact E2D and my projects have on the community. By providing laptops and digital skills training, we empower people to apply for jobs, complete school work, and access essential online resources. This, in turn, creates new opportunities and fosters greater inclusion and equity in our community.

My summer with E2D has been transformative. It has broadened my understanding of the nonprofit sector and shown me the significant impact digital access has on economic and social equity. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to E2D’s mission and look forward to continuing my journey in making a positive difference in the world.