Jewish Family Services Expands Digital Skills Training Across Central Ohio

$65,000 contribution from AT&T will empower hundreds with critical digital access and education. 

Columbus, OH (May 7, 2025) – Jewish Family Services (JFS) is proud to announce a generous $65,000 contribution from AT&T to expand its Digital Skills for the Workplace program which will enhance Jewish Family Services’ capacity to address the unique digital needs of Central Ohio residents—reducing social and economic barriers and helping individuals gain essential tools for today’s workforce. 

Jewish Family Services provides a wide range of supports to help individuals safely and effectively use technology, including: 

  • employment-focused digital skills  
  • one-on-one digital coaching for older adults 
  • beginner-level computer instruction for individuals from low-income households 
  • digital skills community workshops across Columbus and Franklin County 

These programs are designed to empower individuals to build confidence using essential technologies—whether for employment, healthcare access, or staying connected to loved ones and community resources. 

“Ensuring Columbus residents have access to digital skills training is a critical part of our effort to bridge the digital divide in our communities,” said Nick Bankston, Columbus City Councilmember and Chair of the City Council Finance Committee which includes Technology.  “It is important to see community organizations like Jewish Family Services partnering with companies like AT&T to provide training opportunities.” 

 Funding from AT&T directly supports Jewish Family Services’ Digital Skills for the Workplace program, which offers free training to help adults build confidence using essential computer tools and technologies that boost both employability and productivity. In today’s competitive job market, digital proficiency is a key differentiator—empowering job seekers to stand out and secure meaningful employment. With this generous support from AT&T Jewish Family Services will be able to reach hundreds of individuals across Central Ohio, advancing digital equity and preparing our community for success in an increasingly connected world. 

 “AT&T is grateful for the leadership of Jewish Family Services to bridge the digital divide in Columbus with their Digital Skills for the Workplace classes,” said Sarah Briggs, Director, External Affairs, AT&T.  “Public-private partnerships are important to ensure that all Columbus residents know how to use the Internet effectively through classes and trainings.” 

“The ability to effectively and safely use technology is now required for almost any job. We deeply appreciate AT&T’s support for Jewish Family Services’ Digital Skills for the Workplace programming which is empowering hundreds of Central Ohio residents with the skills needed for employment at family-sustaining wages and career pathways that offer opportunities for advancement.” said Karen Mozenter, CEO, Jewish Family Services. 

Jewish Family Services is committed to equipping Central Ohio residents for the digital environment of the 21st century. With additional funding recently awarded by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, we hope to further expand our digital skills programming and dramatically increase the number of residents who can safely use technology to access healthcare, pay bills, connect with loved ones, and participate fully in our increasingly digital world.  

To learn more about Digital Skills for the Workplace and other services at Jewish Family Services, visit www.jfscolumbus.org. 

Related links: NBC4 Video, Columbus Jewish News Article

For more information, contact: 

Chase Barney, Digital Coach, Team Lead 

614.559.0125 

cbarney@jfscolumbus.org 

About Jewish Family Services 

Jewish Family Services helps individuals and families achieve economic self-sufficiency and emotional stability. Supporting the Central Ohio Community since 1908, we help people find good jobs and companies find the right talent; support older adults and Holocaust Survivors in navigating the challenges of aging; help refugees integrate into the community; connect people to community resources; empower family self-sufficiency through financial counseling; and provide digital skills and technology training. Our organization welcomes individuals of all backgrounds – Jewish and non-Jewish – and from every zip code in Central Ohio.  

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