BALTIMORE, MD  - The William & Lanaea C. Featherstone Foundation kicks off its signature computer literacy program "Empowering Latinos: One Click at a Time," with a grant from BGE, Maryland’s largest gas and electric utility. The funds provide the Latino community with improved computer skills and laptops for their homes.

"During Hispanic Heritage Month, BGE is pleased to announce its investment in such an important initiative that improves the lives of the communities that we service. We are committed to supporting valuable, educational programs and providing opportunities that fuel success and boost economic empowerment." said Michael Davenport, BGE’s community affairs manager.

The Foundation’s free, six-week program offers hands-on computer training aimed at bridging the digital divide. The goal is to provide Latino immigrant parents with technology skills so that they can receive higher paying jobs to support their families and help their children academically.

"I landed a job at New York Life Insurance Company as a result of this program," said Delia Robles, a Mexican native and former program participant. "This program helps Latino immigrant families improve our earning potential through skills training."

Through a grant from the Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation, the children of the parents participate in an interactive educational enrichment program while their parents are learning to use the computer.

The program runs until November 1 at the Baltimore County Public Library (BCPL). "The Woodlawn Branch is pleased to host this innovative program that specifically helps the Latino community improve their technology skills and gain access to free digital resources including BCPL's databases, e-books and ongoing job search and technology training," said Ashley Rogers, Woodlawn Branch manager.

The program, led by Open Society Institute Baltimore Community Fellow Lanaea Featherstone, is being replicated in locations with high immigrant populations.