CTC History
OAI inc. has been committed to teaching computer and technology skills to individuals since 1998. OAI expanded its technology vision in May 2002 when the OAI Community Technology Center (CTC) was opened to the public with 18 computers made possible through a grant from the “Eliminate the Digital Divide” initiative of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). OAI has since expanded its community outreach and collaborates with community-based organizations and agencies to provide training and Internet access. With continued DCEO support, OAI has increased its capacity to 39 computers (including a mobile lab with 13 laptops). OAI provides high-speed Internet access and computer skills training to over 600 Illinois residents annually.
Community Programs
Many of our students come from communities that suffer from the consequences of the digital divide: lack of access to quality educational resources, a growing skills gap, few livable wage jobs, and lack of internet resources.
OAI's CTC bridges the digital divide by providing Chicago residents with access to engaging and practical computer instruction that can lead to more confident, competent, self-determined individuals who are better prepared to thrive in an ever changing world. Offerings include:
- Basic Computer Literacy Skills (including Microsoft Office Suite)
- Digital Media
- Resume Writing
- Technology Assisted Academic, GED and ESL Instruction
Classes range from 3-hour workshops, to 15-day classes, to 10-week technology assisted GED and ESL classes
Public Computer Lab Access: OAI's Community Technology Center (CTC)
makes technology available to the public for educational and career related
purposes. Self-directed learning and exploration are essential to building
confidence, motivation, self-determination and economic independence.
For this reason, the OAI CTC is available to students and the general public
daily during normal business hours. In addition to Microsoft Office,
OAI’s CTC provides resume writing, GED, ESL and typing software.
For more information about using OAI’s CTC, contact Renee Bradford
at (312) 528-3500 or at rbradford@oaiinc.org.
Volunteer Opportunities: We are always looking for dedicated volunteers to share
computer skills and life experiences with our students.
For more information regarding volunteer opportunities please contact
Gerri Chavers at (312) 528-3507 or at gchavers@oaiinc.org.