Symposium sponsored by the Detroit Technology Coalition, Michigan Neighborhood Partnership, Detroit Public Library, CTCNet, and the America Connects Consortium (ACC) “The Detroit Technology Coalition was formed in 1999 to connect organizations focused on improving communities through technology. In early 2000, mission statement, vision and implementation strategies were established in order to facilitate the role of the Coalition.” Michigan Neighborhood Partnership exists to “assist community-based organizations in Detroit to strengthen individuals, families and communities through social and economic development.” CTCNet (Community Technology Center Network) is a national organization of community technology centers where people get “free or low-cost access to computers and computer-related technology, such as the Internet, together with learning opportunities that encourage exploration and discovery.” America Connects Consortium (ACC) “is a group of organizational partners funded by the Department of Education to support CTCs. ACC has received a one-year, $2 million contract from the Department to provide assistance to CTCs.” (CTCnet is a partner in this consortium)

Symposium’s Purpose: “Explore ways to bring technology access to every Detroit Family.” Opening Remarks: Omaryi Bayi, Michigan Neighborhood Partnership, Board Member Carl Davidson, Chicago CTCNet, National Board Member Emphasis on creating human & social capital where technology is the by-product. State Rep. Hansen Clarke, Michigan House of Representatives Emphasized the importance of technology in providing access to information, hence access to money (grants, government funds?) Scott Gifford, Detroit Technology Coalition, Chairperson, Steering Comm. Talked about the digital divide - “Digital divide will go away once we put computers in people’s homes.”

Panel Discussion: Panelists: Mike Tenbusch, Think Detroit Program emphasis: home computer use. They direct athletic leagues as a means of getting in front of kids. New initiative is to lease computers - requirements for keeping them. “Computers in the home increases the learning environment” Recognizes the downsides of computers in the home as well. (junk on Internet, adult chat rooms, games that take away from social interaction.) “Not the computer that is the asset, but what it does in your life.”

Dennis Nordmoe, Neighborhood Centers, Inc. Provides the service of access & training in technology Offers GED, computer basics in Spanish (adults,children, grandparents come to learn together) Kerry Sanders, DPL High-speed network connecting all city branches State-of-the art Bookmobiles (“Not your father’s bookmobile!”) Scott Gifford, Head Start Family Service Center Focus on training/preparing adults as well as kids. Focus on the fathers - many women come to the centers, not so many men Julie Kordyban, Youth Opportunities Movement Help kids become employed - “Fixing a computer gives you power” Kenneth Paulus, Digital Detroit

Dick Rapplye, Mott Foundation Improve non-profit administration and operations. Three-prong approach: ASP pilot, N-Power office in Detroit Areas of emphasis: tech assistance, education, application, volunteers Kenneth Paulus, Digital Detroit “Foster new economy ideas” Mission is “Education, Collaboration, Inspiration” “There is more technology in a Ford than in a silicon chip.” Next Steps: Plan for continued collaboration. Summary of Key Issues & Themes: Collaborate and share resources Pride in the community, passion for these organizations Concerns: Finding volunteers and $$