CLEVELAND — On Lorain Avenue in Cleveland, doors are always open at Ashbury Senior Computer Community Center, or ASC3.
"We're a digital skills nonprofit organization, so we can help you with anything that's related to technology," said program manager, Gina Birch.
Birch knows technology like the back of her hand. She's been working in consumer electronics and account management for years. Yet, she knows for so many, that's not the case.
"They don't know what can be accomplished or even if they do know what can be accomplished, what those steps are or where to go," Birch said.
That's where ASC3 comes in. It's a safe place for community members, especially the elderly, to learn technology for free.
"The greater Cleveland area is key to the state, number one, but also, it's one of the poorest cities in the country and one of the worst connected cities in the country. So for people to have access within, like, walking distance, busing, distance (is key)," Birch said.
The instruction is hands on for a reason.
"It's essential that (instructors) are actually from the community they're gonna be working in. So they can actually relate to the people that are in the neighborhood," Birch said.
At ASC3, all skill levels are welcome, whether you've never used a computer before, need access to the internet, or just want to elevate your career.
"So that can take a person from, you know, borderline hopelessness to, you know what, I'm gonna go back to school and finish my nursing degree. Or I can stay and work from home now and take care of my kids instead of paying for daycare," Birch said.
No matter your reason for visiting ASC3, know this: It's a judge-free zone.
"It's a big step for people to even come through the door and we make sure to celebrate that," Birch said.
For more information on ASC3, click HERE.
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