Computer CORE

Help Alexandria Stay Connected—One Neighbor at a Time

Alexandria is a city of opportunity—but only if you can get online.

Today, applying for a job, accessing healthcare, managing benefits, or even communicating with your child’s school requires digital skills. For many of our neighbors, that’s still out of reach.

At Computer CORE, we meet people at that exact moment—when they’re trying … but stuck.

• A mother navigating a confusing benefits portal on her phone.
• A job seeker unable to complete an online application.
• An older adult locked out of an email account that holds everything.

This is where change begins.

What We Do—Right Here in Alexandria

For 27 years, Computer CORE has helped adults build digital confidence—starting from wherever they are.

• Free online classes
• Free refurbished computers to keep
• Real-time HelpDesk support

1,000 adults in the DMV each year start their educational and career journey at Computer CORE.

And now, we are poised to provide something Alexandria urgently needs:

Digital Navigators

Digital Navigators are trusted guides—community members—who provide one-on-one help in libraries and community spaces. Your donation literally puts money in the hands of each local community member trained and hired to serve as a Digital Navigator.

They sit beside someone and say, “Let’s do this together.”

They help with:

• Job applications and workforce portals
• Healthcare and benefits systems
• Email, passwords, and online accounts
• Zoom, telehealth, and everyday technology

They speak the languages of our community—Spanish, Arabic, Amharic, Dari, and more—and understand the lived experience behind the need.

Why This Matters Now

Neighboring communities (Arlington and DC) already have structured Digital Navigator programs. Alexandria does not.

Without investment, our city risks falling behind—leaving residents disconnected from essential systems.

What Your Gift Does

We’ve set a $30,000 goal—and thanks to a potential $5,000 match, your gift can go twice as far.

Your Impact, Tangibly

• $10 – puts a mouse in someone’s hand
• $25 – gives a keyboard and a starting point
• $250 – delivers a fully refurbished computer
• $500 – covers 25 hours of Digital Navigation support
• $1,000 – covers 50 hours of Digital Navigation support
• $2,500 – supports a Digital Navigation team can set up at a local library for 125 hours

What Makes CORE Different

We don’t screen people out. We don’t require readiness. We don’t loan devices—we give them to keep.

We stay with people until technology becomes something they use, not avoid.

CORE is the first step for many adult Alexandria residents before they can access other programs!

Join Us

This Spring2ACTion, you’re helping ensure every Alexandrian can participate fully in modern life.

Give today. Help us unlock the $5,000 match.