At HP, we believe in creating a better, more connected world for everyone. That's why we've partnered with the YMCA to tackle digital equity and help people from all walks of life gain access to vital skills and knowledge.
 
The digital divide leaves many communities without the technology and internet access they need to thrive. It’s often most acute for marginalized and underrepresented groups, making it even more critical. By joining forces with the YMCA, we're working towards a more inclusive society and economy for everyone.
 
Our global initiative, HP LIFE, already has almost 850,000 users across 200 countries, offering more than 30 free online courses in various languages. Since launching, almost two million online courses have been taken across eight languages. These courses cover essential business, IT, and entrepreneurial skills, empowering users to succeed in our digital age. With the YMCA's help, we're making these valuable resources available to an even wider audience. We've also provided financial support to the YMCA, helping them extend their reach and impact. With this backing, they've been able to establish new learning centers and bring on skilled instructors, making our partnership even more effective at closing the digital gap.
 
The goal of the HP-YMCA initiative: to narrow the digital divide by helping people — in particular, younger generations — acquire new skills, secure employment opportunities, and build a fulfilling future. And there is a burning need for these skills around the world. Globally, about one-fifth of youth are unemployed and are not being educated or receiving any formal skills training, according to the UN-sponsored Decent Jobs for Youth.
 
HP has committed to accelerating digital equity for 150 million people by 2030. The YMCA’s Vision 2030 strategy also incorporates digital equity as it fosters education, employment, and entrepreneurship in communities worldwide. Through our work together, we’re already reaching young people in India, Ethiopia, Liberia, Kosovo, Scotland, Jerusalem and in the U.S. By next year, this program is expected to be in 50 countries.

The collaboration between HP and the YMCA shows what can happen when technology and social responsibility come together. By combining the power of HP LIFE with the YMCA's extensive network, we're working towards a brighter, more inclusive digital future for everyone, one step at a time.
 
This summary was taken from a Garage by HP article originally published on August 11, 2022. Read the full article here: https://garage.hp.com/master/en/impact/hplife-ymca-digital-equity-education.html