As part of AT&T’s continuing efforts to boost internet adoption, AT&T and Georgia 4-H held today a technology class, teaching seniors how to safely navigate the digital world. The statewide program bridges the generations and helps enhance
connections across Georgia.

A study by the Pew Research Center reveals that understanding the relevance of the internet and learning how to use the internet are the two biggest obstacles to adoption.

From 2015 to 2017 alone, AT&T invested nearly $5.3 billion in our wireless and wireline networks in Georgia. As private industry continues to invest to close the remaining connectivity gap in rural areas, a key focus of the statewide technology initiative is on increasing internet adoption.

To help boost internet adoption rates, the technology program pairs Georgia 4-H student trainers with senior users and uses AT&T’s Digital You curriculum to share how to have a safe and secure online experience. The personal one-on-one training results in benefits to all participants. Seniors enjoy an increased understanding of technology. And, student trainers sharpen invaluable leadership and interpersonal skills, helping prepare them to graduate career and college ready.

“With the support of AT&T and Georgia 4-H, more of Georgia’s seniors are learning firsthand how to use technology to stay healthy and keep in touch with friends and family,” said Speaker David Ralston. “This event benefits everyone involved – our seniors receive beneficial training and the 4-H’ers learn how to share their knowledge with others. I want to thank AT&T and our Georgia 4-H students for their efforts to empower senior citizens in Fannin and Gilmer counties.”

“We continually work to attract and support companies and organizations that are committed to investing across our great state and improving the quality of life for our Georgia residents,” said Senator Steve Gooch. “I applaud Georgia 4-H and AT&T, collaborating to empower Georgia seniors – in rural and urban areas – with the tools they need to stay connected.”

“Our amazing Georgia 4-H students are working directly with seniors to illustrate the importance of digital literacy and safety for all generations,” said Arch Smith, director, Georgia 4-H. “Our Georgia 4-H students are working with seniors on an array of digital tasks –everything from learning how to video chat with friends and family, program security locks and codes to protect devices and personal data, post photos on Facebook and use calendar and reminder apps for things like doctor’s appointments. Georgia 4-H is proud to collaborate with AT&T and excited to launch this training initiative, enhancing support in our communities – urban and rural.”

The Barrow County Center, Elbert County Senior Center, Hart County Senior Center, Jasper County Senior Center, Monroe County Senior Center, Moultrie Senior Center, Paulding County Senior Center and Stephens County Senior Center have hosted the #GACyberSeniors program.

“Technology is no longer something seniors avoid, and #GACyberSeniors aims to help our seniors safely embrace the many benefits of digital literacy,” said Pam Godfrey, site manager of the Fannin County Senior Center. “Improving the digital skills of everyone is key to Georgia’s future, and I applaud engaged leaders like Speaker Ralston and  Senator Gooch and our Georgia 4-H students as they work to ensure the digital transition is effortless for seniors across Georgia.”

“High-speed internet has quickly become a preferred way to access information and communicate,” stated Don Barbour, AT&T Georgia regional director of external and legislative affairs. “We believe that enabling dedicated students to engage and inform Georgia seniors on the many benefits of digital literacy will help boost internet adoption rates and further connect our state.”