CARDBoard Project

Virtual Resource Center Services: We pivoted our outreach and intake model after COVID to be mobile, lower cost, and to use fewer on-site staff. We use a small team on-site that connects our clients to our case managers via a video platform. Our case managers include Social Worker Interns who hail from universities across the country.This is usually our first contact with our clients where we assess their needs and identify their barriers to success. We then connect them to our vetted 10-Step Partners who provide support across several needs e.g. housing, food, clothing, transportation. Meanwhile, we provide them with a digital identity and a virtual phone number, if needed. If they are ready, we will register them for our Digital Skills Training program. Continued on Schedule O.

Digital Device Program: Many participants in the Specialty Court of Dallas are required to take a mandated online program. The Specialty Court will identify and refer promising candidates to our program where they need access. We will loan for the duration of their Divergent program a laptop, a hotspot with a data plan, and a backpack with necessary accessories, to allow them to complete it.In 2023, 101 clients were provided laptops and hotspots.

Digital Skills Training: Our Program is designed for clients who have zero or close to zero computing skills. We offer the program in English and Spanish versions, depending on the audience. Over the course of 12 hours (over 6 weeks) we introduce them to the basics of a computer, keyboarding and mousing, navigating the system and the internet through a browser, basic office suite usage (docs, spreadsheets, email, calendar, cloud drive). Then we help them to use their new skills to job search on Indeed and to create and tailor their resume. We also partner with banks to provide financial readiness training. At graduation, we bring employer partners to discuss job opportunities.Continued on Schedule O.