Last year the 4-H youth development program at Alabama A&M University (AAMU) received a 4-H Tech Changemakers grant from the National 4-H Council. The Tech Changemakers initiative is designed to place youth in leadership positions by training them to teach digital skills to underserved audiences. In 2021, the Federal Communications Commission reported that more than 10 million people lacked Internet access, thus making 4-H changemakers critical ambassadors in closing the digital divide.

Currently, nine students are trained to implement the program and are actively serving their communities. Tech Changemakers presentations include the following:

• Computer and Internet basics
• Email fraud and scam prevention
• Searching for online information and jobs
• Using tools and templates to develop resumés

Community Partnerships

Anarius Brooks speaking to members of the Alabama Association of RSVP Directors.

Tech Changemakers often work with public libraries, such as the Florence, Russellville, Helen Keller, and Madison County public libraries. Other partners include the Upward Bound program at Northwest-Shoals Community College, the Boys & Girls Club of North Alabama, and the Franklin County Junior Leadership program. Through these efforts, Tech Changemakers reached other young people and their families. In addition, Deshler, Hatton, and Opelika high schools hosted large events where Tech Changemakers educated audiences.

In addition, a statewide partnership was formed after a presentation was delivered to participants at the Alabama Association of Retired Senior Volunteer Program Directors’ annual meeting. The 4-H agents for Montgomery and Lauderdale counties introduced the program while Tech Changemaker Ambassador Anarius Brooks delivered a stellar presentation about using Facebook in personal and professional settings. As a result, the Association made Tech Changemakers its partner project for 2023. This collaboration also led to other educational opportunities, including training volunteers on how to better serve their communities.

More Program Impacts

In addition to forming new community partnerships, Tech Changemakers gain new skills in public speaking and delivering technical instruction. In return, people become more digitally literate. While engaging in program activities, Extension’s 4-H agents also discovered that some people find it difficult to navigate websites. In response, the Alabama Extension website, www.aces.edu, is used as a teaching tool to not only promote the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and 4-H at AAMU but to inform diverse audiences about other programs and services the System offers.