Beyond The Blog
Beyond the Blog is an evolution of The Patterson Foundation’s storytelling approach focused on creating and sharing engaging content featuring the people, organizations, and communities strengthened through the Foundation’s work. This idea began and grew in 2022 with strategic oversight from MagnifyGood, guidance from Debra Jacobs, and content planning, coordination, and production by Kellie Alexander and Rachel Hettinger.
Beyond The Blog
Discover DeSoto: Bridging the Digital Gap in DeSoto County with Maribel Martinez
On this episode of Discover DeSoto, Alicia Exantus speaks with Maribel Martinez, a consultant with The Patterson Foundation’s Digital Access for All initiative.
Although Maribel isn’t from DeSoto County, she has spent three years working closely with the community and has seen it shift from a rural area facing major challenges to one energized by new investments, partnerships, and growing momentum.
The episode highlights DeSoto’s progress in expanding digital access. More residents now have broadband or are seeking devices and training, yet affordability and rural terrain remain major barriers. Maribel emphasizes that access isn’t meaningful unless families can actually afford to get online.
This is why the Digital Access for All initiative focuses on three essentials: connectivity, devices, and digital skills. A key effort is the Digital Navigator Program, which trains community members to help residents secure affordable internet, obtain refurbished devices, and build confidence in using technology. A new cohort is now being developed specifically for DeSoto, inviting both organizations and individual residents to get involved. Spanish-speaking navigators are especially needed to support those who learn best from someone who shares their language and culture.
The episode also spotlights Suncoast Digital Inclusion Month and a device-refurbishing partnership with STUG. We encourage you to stay connected through DeSotoCountyAhead.org
Timestamps
- 00:38 - Introduction to Maribel, consultant with The Patterson Foundation
- 01:18 - Maribel shares what makes DeSoto special
- 03:07 - Maribel clarifies and explains Access vs Adoption
- 04:30 - Maribel talks about the importance of affordability
- 4:45 -Maribel defines “lighting up a house.”
- 5:50 - Maribel defines and explains to listeners more about the digital divide
- 8:35 - Maribal goes into detail about the DA4A (Digital Access for All) initiative and the DN (Digital Navigator) programs
- 13:41 - Maribel describes the 4 levels of participation in the Digital Navigator program
- 20:22 - Maribel highlights the Suncoast Digital Inclusion Month as well as the Device Drive
- 24:00 - Maribel wraps up this episode by sharing her Discover Desoto Gem, The Yellow Deli
Links to Learn More
- Digital Access for All initiative
- Digital Navigator Program
- Blog: Discover Desoto: Bridging the Digital Gap in Desoto County With Maribel Martinez
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