This article is the first in a two-part series about the stories of impact from the KC Digital Inclusion Fund’s Devices Grants, written by Gus Livers, ACC Member.
What happens when organizations are able to provide devices for their clients who were previously disconnected? Administered by KC Digital Drive, the KC Digital Inclusion Fund at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation awarded $75,000 to 11 eligible nonprofits for the “Devices Grants” in 2024. This funding helped nonprofits distribute devices to clients and improve their internal systems to better serve their communities. From helping job seekers and individuals in reentry programs secure employment, to providing seniors with digital skills and access to critical services, these efforts show how technology creates opportunities, fosters independence, and strengthens organizational impact. The following stories highlight how digital access bridges gaps and builds long-term success.
Black Family Technology Awareness Association: Expanding Digital Access for Youth and Seniors
The Black Family Technology Awareness Association (BFTAA) used a Digital Inclusion Fund grant to distribute 10 laptops and 8 tablets, supporting digital literacy programs for both youth and seniors in Kansas City. Seniors gained practical skills like account recovery and password management, with many expressing interest in continued learning. To meet this demand, the organization plans to train more instructors for long-term digital education. “We are definitely going to work on raising funds to keep making digital access to all ages. We are going to not only search for grants, but we will be increasing our own fundraising efforts. This is a needed addition to our programs” said Lewis George Walker, President of BFTAA.
Youth in the tech club used their tablets for coding, programming, and robotics projects, enhancing their engagement both in and out of class. While challenges like temperature control and noise required creative solutions, the program delivered meaningful training and access to technology. Looking ahead, the organization aims to expand its impact by securing new funding and developing a sustained digital inclusion strategy for all ages.
Hope Family Care Center: Technology Investment Boosts Patient Care
At Hope Family Care Center in Kansas City, outdated technology was creating delays in patient care. With help from a Digital Inclusion Fund grant, the clinic received 20 new laptops, which immediately improved workflows, communication, and service delivery. The upgrades, featuring touchscreen functionality, built-in microphones and cameras, and softphone capabilities, allowed staff to streamline patient intake, reduce wait times, and serve an additional 10 patients each week. “Ensuring a high-quality system to support physicians and staff enhances productivity, boosts physician and employee satisfaction, and creates a better working environment for everyone” said Kenneth Klingensmith, CEO of Hope Family Care Center.
More than 500 more patients can now be served annually, and the clinic is better equipped for expanding telehealth services. By carefully selecting the right devices and maximizing the grant’s value, Hope Family Care Center laid the foundation for ongoing improvements. “Investing in technology is essential,” said Kenneth, “without the right tools to support one’s work, efficiency declines, and progress is hindered.”
Hope Family is committed to further investments in essential tech tools, building a more efficient, accessible, and compassionate healthcare system for their community.
City in Motion Dance Theater, Inc.
City in Motion (CIM) Dance Theater used a recent Digital Inclusion Fund grant to acquire two refurbished MacBooks, enhancing both dance instruction and administrative operations across several counties in Missouri and Kansas. These upgrades improved class sign-ups, student support, and instructor resources. For example, when Seema, a hip-hop instructor, temporarily lost phone service, he was able to stream music for class using the new equipment. This ensured classes continued without disruption.
The new laptops also improved CIM’s backend systems, replacing outdated tech previously used for tasks like enrollment and customer support. Challenges like ensuring secure, shared access and maintaining internet connectivity were addressed through thoughtful planning and staff training. Looking forward, CIM plans to build technology needs into its annual budget, strengthening digital tools to better serve students and families across the Kansas City metro. Lydia Moreno, CIM’s president said, “This process taught us how vital it is to train staff on digital tools, protect public-facing devices, and create a secure, shareable system for operations. Technology may not be our core discipline, but it’s essential to how we serve the community.”
KC Footprints
Founded in 2001 by Brother Wayne D. White, KC Footprints helps individuals, especially veterans, struggling with addiction and reentering society. Through a Digital Inclusion Fund grant, Footprints provided essential technology, including smartphones and desktop computers, to their clients. One client, recently released after decades in federal prison, used his new smartphone to apply for jobs, navigate public transit, and attend support meetings—securing employment within just two weeks. Joel Bailey, Co-Executive Director at Footprints shared, “It is difficult to overstate how important having a working smart phone is. This grant process has enabled us to ensure that this frequently overlooked basic need is met for our clients.”
The grant also helped Footprints create a new library equipped with computers and upgrade staff laptops, offering up to 300 clients a reliable space to search for jobs and access critical resources. While the library wasn’t ready during the initial grant phase, the immediate success of the smartphone distribution program highlighted the urgent need for accessible technology. Moving forward, Footprints plans to continue expanding this effort, recognizing that access to technology is vital for long-term reintegration and success.
Journey to New Life
Journey to New Life (JTNL) used a Digital Inclusion Fund grant to set up a computer lab with eight desktop computers and IT support, serving 10–15 clients weekly as part of their Employment Program. The lab has helped individuals update resumes, apply for jobs, and complete training programs. One standout story is KZ, who used the lab to successfully complete online courses to get his CDL certification. With this certification, he was able to enroll in a paid CDL training program that will directly connect him to job opportunities after completing training. It put him on a direct path to employment. Nick Flowers, Program Director at JTNL said “Our computer lab has equipped clients with the tools and access needed to truly take the lead in building their careers, empowering them to both think and act bigger.”
Though setting up the lab was briefly delayed due to scheduling with a donated workstation provider, the result has been transformative. Looking ahead, Journey to New Life plans to offer digital and financial literacy classes and has welcomed a Digital Ambassador to help clients use the lab. The project highlights how access to technology can empower individuals reentering society to build careers and independence. “Without this funding, we would have neither the space nor the capacity to provide clients with the tools needed to succeed in a job market that is nearly entirely dependent on computer and internet access.”