National digital learning program underway

Initiative brings critical skills education to kids in 200 Salvation Army after-school programs across the U.S.

By Ashley Carter –

The Salvation Army announced today the launch of The Salvation Army Digital Learning Program presented by Target for 200 Salvation Army after-school programs across the nation. The digital education initiative is aimed at empowering youth and communities with meaningful and critical life skills in areas such as financial literacy, digital preparedness, STEM readiness, health and wellness, and diversity and inclusion.

Developed in partnership with leading education technology company, EverFi, the innovative online program offers engaging, dynamic and interactive content. Through a grant provided by Target, The Salvation Army added more than 1,700 new computers and accessibility upgrades to enable more youth to access the program.

“Target’s partnership with The Salvation Army’s Digital Learning Program further strengthens our commitment to supporting local communities,” said Laysha Ward, executive vice president and chief corporate social responsibility officer for Target. “By working together, Target, The Salvation Army and EverFi can make a positive impact to change how youth will interact and engage in learning in a new way.”

The program includes eight different courses for kids in grades K-12. All learning courses contain guided activities, interactive gaming simulations, and content with real-world applications.

“Each year, we work with more than 250,000 kids in a variety of programs across the country, helping them overcome obstacles posed by poverty so they can unlock their potential,” said Colonel Ron Busroe, National Community Relations and Development secretary for The Salvation Army. “Feedback from pilot testing has been overwhelmingly positive, and the program is already resonating in the communities that we serve.”

To celebrate the launch of program, The Salvation Army in conjunction with EverFi and Target, hosted a marquee national launch event in Irving, Texas, March 2.  

“Digital education is a powerful tool that can address skill deficiencies that put huge pressures on families and can keep young people from realizing their full potential,” said EverFi CEO Tom Davidson. “We are grateful to Target and The Salvation Army for their dedication to closing the critical skills gap in youth and are honored to power this national program.”

A pilot program during the 2014-2015 academic year included five locations in the Western Territory: the Seattle White Center, Kauluwela Mission Corps, Kona Corps, Anchorage Corps and the Gresham Corps.

West’s locations

Alaska

Anchorage Corps

 

Cascade

Gresham Corps

 

Del Oro

Antioch Corps

Hayward Corps

Lodi Corps

Sacramento Citadel Ray Robinson Community Center

Santa Rosa Corps

Suisun City Kroc Center

 

Golden State

Los Banos Corps

Merced Corps

Modesto Red Shield

Monterey Corps ‘Sonshine’ CDC

San Francisco Kroc Center

 

Hawaii

Kona Corps

Kroc Center

RMI After-school

 

Northwest

Coeur d’Alene Kroc Center

Federal Way

Missoula Corps

Puyallup Valley Corps

Renton Corps

Seattle White Center Corps

Vancouver Corps

 

Sierra del Mar

El Cajon Corps

Oceanside Corps

Riverside Corps Kids’ Cafe

 

Southern California

Alegria

Anaheim Red Shield

Burbank Corps

Glendale Corps

L.A. Central Corps

Oxnard / Port Hueneme Corps

Santa Barbara Corps

Torrance Corps

Tustin Ranch Corps

Westwood Transitional Village

 

Southwest

Casa Grande Corps

Chandler Corps Youth Center

Estrella Mountain Corps

Flagstaff Corps

Las Vegas Citadel

Mesa Citadel After-School

Prescott Corps