Over the past month, we checked in with our 2024 grantees to learn how their funded programs, projects, and initiatives are progressing – and to better understand the impact they’re making across Los Angeles. Now, we are excited to share these interviews, with stories of growth, challenges, and community transformation.

Bridge The Digital Divide received funding through the LA2050 Grants Challenge from the Goldhirsh Foundation to support its intergenerational program that teaches digital literacy to older adults while providing youth paid work experience. Below is an edited transcript of our conversation with their team.

LA2050: Your Digital Navigators program addresses the digital divide among older adults in South LA. Tell us more about this work and the role of intergenerational relationships.

Bridge The Digital Divide: The Digital Navigators program is our answer to a problem that’s too big to ignore: older adults in South Los Angeles are being left behind in the digital age. At Bridge The Digital Divide, we believe access to technology and education shouldn’t be a privilege—it’s a necessity.

For many of our seniors, the world has moved faster than they ever imagined, leaving them disconnected from tools that can help them thrive socially and economically. Thriving means more than just getting by—it’s about gaining confidence, independence, and access to the incredible opportunities technology offers.

That’s why our work brings generations together. Our youth Digital Navigators bring their energy, tech knowledge, and patience to help seniors learn skills like making video calls on WhatsApp or navigating Zoom. Meanwhile, the seniors teach these young people about resilience, empathy, and the value of slowing down and connecting. It’s a mutual exchange that transforms everyone involved.

In the past six months, we’ve strengthened this program through partnerships, like our work with Senior Planet-OATS, which helped us tailor our curriculum specifically for older adults. We also introduced a “learn and earn” incentive: seniors who complete our eight-week session receive a refurbished laptop. This gives them the tools they need to keep learning and practicing at home.

One senior told us how proud she felt just learning to copy and paste text to share with a friend—something she struggled with. Another, Linda, discovered the world of online shopping and joked she’s now obsessed with Amazon. These stories remind us that what might seem like a small step can be life-changing for someone else.

LA2050: Your application mentioned reducing isolation and improving health access for older adults. How does digital literacy help older adults feel more connected, informed, or empowered in other areas of their lives?

Bridge The Digital Divide: Imagine not being able to see your grandchildren grow up or not knowing how to schedule a doctor’s appointment online. For many seniors in South LA, that’s their reality. Digital literacy changes all of that.

It starts with connection. Learning how to use WhatsApp or Zoom helps our seniors bridge miles and generations, letting them see and talk to loved ones. It’s not just about the technology—it’s about the joy of staying connected.

When it comes to health, we’ve seen seniors gain independence through telehealth. Whether it’s scheduling a virtual doctor visit, or accessing medical records, the barriers come down when they have the skills to navigate these tools.

But it’s the empowerment we hear in their voices that inspires us. Mike, one of our seniors, told us how much time he saves now that he knows how to look up information online. He’s motivated to keep learning because he sees the real benefits in his daily life. These aren’t just success stories—they’re examples of people reclaiming their independence and discovering what they’re capable of.

LA2050: What do you hope to achieve in the last six months of the grant, and how can the broader LA2050 community support?

Bridge The Digital Divide: In the next six months, our goal is to fully integrate intergenerational mentorship into our programs. We’re expanding the Youth Digital Navigator program, partnering with organizations like LA-Tech.org to hire college students as Digital Mentors. Seniors will gain hands-on help, and young people will learn leadership and communication skills that stick with them for life.

We’re also doubling down on advocacy. Digital literacy isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. Technology is the great equalizer, but only if everyone has the skills and access to use it. We want to show LA that when seniors thrive, their families, communities, and neighborhoods thrive, too. For seniors, this isn’t about preparing for the future—it’s about surviving and thriving in the present.

To the broader LA2050 community, we ask for your engagement. If you know a senior who could benefit from our programs, encourage them to join. If you have the skills or resources, volunteer or donate. The digital divide won’t close itself—it takes a collective effort to ensure no one is left behind. Together, we can create a connected and thriving Los Angeles for all.

Interview Participants:

Isaac Kashaka, Executive Director

Allie Rehm Kashaka, Operations Manager