Authored by Mylayna Albright, AVP, Corporate Responsibility at AT&T
In today’s world, internet access is the key to nearly every opportunity. However, millions of Americans still don’t have access, can’t afford it or don’t have the skills to use it. This is the “digital divide”— the gap between those who can fully participate in the digital world and those who can’t.
A central part of AT&T’s mission to ensure no one is left behind when it comes to online opportunity, AT&T’s Connected Learning Centers (CLCs) serve as connectivity hubs in cities around the country. Located within nonprofit organizations, these centers provide free access to digital resources and high-speed AT&T internet. Since 2021, AT&T has established 69 CLCs across 20 states, serving over 87,000 people nationwide.
As the demand for digital resources grows, AT&T is committed to opening at least 100 CLCs across the U.S. by the end of 2027, including a recent announcement of an additional 25 CLCs in 2025. See if there’s one coming to your city:
At each of these centers, the lives of everyday people are being transformed. For many, CLCs represent more than internet access — they are gateways to opportunity.
1. Children & Families
Through CLCs, families gain access to a range of digital resources like The AchieverySM, AT&T’s free digital learning platform, and AT&T ScreenReady®, which offers resources for families to develop healthy digital habits. These resources support students’ online learning outside the classroom and help caregivers navigate the internet.
In Brooklyn, AT&T’s CLC at the Joseph Miccio Cornerstone Community Center, operated by Good Shepherd Services, is equipping New York families and students with access to broadband, educational tools and technical programming.
2. Young Adults & Job Seekers
Connectivity opens doors to greater possibilities, which is critical for those in moments of transition. For soon-to-be or recent graduates and job seekers, their next opportunity awaits them online. With the free internet access and mentorship available at CLCs, these individuals now have the resources they need to complete their schoolwork, get their driver’s license, apply to colleges or their next jobs or even launch their own businesses.
Many have found these centers to be stepping stones to success, including Gia Duarte of Los Angeles. Gia used her community’s CLC to apply to universities, and in spring 2024, celebrated her acceptance to the University of California, Berkeley on a computer at that same CLC.
3. Older Americans
CLCs help older adults develop vital digital skills. Through workshops, seniors learn to use computers and mobile devices, participate in video calls and recognize online scams. With AT&T’s support, older adults are becoming more independent, socially connected and resilient in today’s digital landscape.
In Cleveland, one of AT&T’s CLCs at Ashbury Senior Computer Center hosts digital literacy workshops to empower its senior residents. Here, 64-year-old Stanley gained digital literacy expertise that empowered him to organize bills electronically, and 74-year-old William learned skills that allowed him to find a part-time job where he can work from home.
Whether you’re a student advancing your education, a job seeker aiming for career growth or a family navigating major life decisions, connectivity is essential. Working with trusted community-based organizations to house CLCs, AT&T helps those previously disconnected thrive in a technology-driven world.
Visit the NLC Strategic Partnerships page to learn more about the organizations like AT&T dedicated to making NLC the premier resource for local governments.
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