The Problem
A STUDENT’S FAMILY INCOME IS THE #1 PREDICTOR OF THEIR ABILITY TO ACQUIRE ADVANCED DIGITAL SKILLS, ESSENTIAL FOR UNLOCKING UPWARD MOBILITY IN THE TECH SECTOR. (1)
Only 53% of families earning less than $30,000 have broadband at home, versus 95% of families with incomes above $75,000 (2).
Advanced digital skills can elevate hourly earnings from $19 to $43, but the absence of broadband access and technical knowledge causes these lucrative opportunities to vanish for low-income students (3). This digital disparity not only hinders their ability to acquire advanced digital skills but also blocks access to high-paying, stable careers, perpetuating a cycle of digital illiteracy and economic stagnation (4).
Our Solution
WE HOLD THE CONVICTION THAT ADVANCED DIGITAL SKILLS TRAINING IS A FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT FOR ALL STUDENTS, IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR FAMILY'S INCOME OR THE ZIP CODE INTO WHICH THEY ARE BORN. ACCESS TO THIS CRITICAL EDUCATION SHOULD BE AN EQUALIZING FORCE, NOT A PRIVILEGE FOR THE FEW.
The Social Media Academy realizes this belief by offering comprehensive, tuition-free training in essential digital domains such as social media marketing, content creation, and data analytics. Our hands-on curriculum immerses students in real-world digital marketing projects for community businesses, fostering technical proficiency and a strong sense of civic engagement.
Participants in the Academy build a substantial professional portfolio, demonstrating their skills and real-world application. This experience not only prepares them for the digital economy but also sets them apart as formidable candidates for competitive college programs and diverse career paths in the global marketplace.
What Makes Us Unique
The Social Media Academy, a cornerstone initiative of Charity Services Midwest, redefines the approach to digital education and empowerment. Here's what distinguishes our program:
Tuition-Free Advanced Digital Education
Accessibility is a key feature of the Social Media Academy, offering tuition-free education to selected students. Our curriculum, focused on social media marketing, content creation, and data analytics, ensures every student has the opportunity to excel in the digital realm, regardless of their socioeconomic background. This initiative not only opens doors for those who may not have the financial means to acquire such education but also ensures that high-quality, advanced digital training is accessible to a broader audience, reducing the digital skills divide.
Empowering Students with Practical, Real-World Experience
The Social Media Academy differentiates itself by directly involving students in the marketing of local small businesses. This not only provides immediate, tangible results that benefit the community but also gives students real-world experience that enhances their learning and application of digital skills.
Professional Portfolio Development
Through real-world project engagements, our program is designed to help students build a robust professional portfolio, demonstrating their capabilities and experience. This portfolio serves as a powerful tool in their academic and professional journey, giving them a competitive edge in the tech sector and beyond.
Unlocking Global Opportunities
Our students emerge with more than just digital skills; they gain a passport to the global job market. The digital marketing skills our students acquire are not just relevant but essential across all industries globally, opening up a world of opportunities and career paths previously inaccessible to them.
