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Plugged In -
Learning Through Technology: Plugged In connects
individuals and cultivates minds by creating the opportunity
to produce, express, and contribute using technology.
Our vision is a community in which opportunities abound
for people to contribute and innovate. Plugged In's
primary medium is Internet and computer technology and
we would like to use television and radio as time, resources,
and opportunities allow.
Since its establishment as a volunteer
grassroots effort in 1992, Plugged In has evolved into
a nationally acclaimed organization operating three
innovative high impact programs:
 Young
Producers Program: A youth-operated Web and video
production business. Clients include Hewlett-Packard
Company and One East Palo Alto. Seventy percent of students
who participate in the program enroll in computer science
classes and 85% of program graduates pursue post-secondary
degrees.
 The
East Palo Alto Community Network: A portfolio of
nine Technology Access Points led by emerging community
leaders and housed in a diverse range of community-based
organizations serving the most in-need residents: East
Palo Alto Senior Center, Light Tree Apartments, Free
at Last, City Team Ministry, OICW, St. Samuel Church,
Cesar Chavez Parent Resource Center, Belle Haven Parent
Resource Center, and Hepeloni School. All the organizations
are working to better serve their clients by incorporating
technology.
 EPA.net:
An online resource center where community members and
organizations can find valuable information, current
news, tools that assist them in achieving their individual
and community goals, and opportunities to get engaged
in community affairs. In one year, EPA.net has attracted
over 1000 subscribers and 35 content developers from
the community.
Plugged In has been cited - in the press and by public
and private officials - as a model for ensuring that
low income communities have the opportunity to benefit
from telecommunications and computer technology. It
has been featured in Fast Company, the San Jose Mercury
News, and Ms. Magazine. President Bill Clinton, United
States Secretary of Commerce Don Evans, and former Chairman
of the FCC William Kennard have visited the organization.
Its local activities generate international attention
and, each year, Plugged In receives visits from more
than 75 people and organizations interested in learning
about its programs and activities.
Plugged In receives support from a broad range of individuals,
foundations, corporations, and government sources. Funders
include Hewlett-Packard Company, SBC, the Richard and
Rhoda Goldman Foundation, and the Technology Opportunities
Program at the United States Department of Commerce.
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