Are internet access and digital skills lagging in your community? A free campaign offers many resources you can use to locally promote the importance of digital literacy skills and increase access to free computer and internet training classes.

EveryoneOn is a national but localizable campaign. It's offered by Connect2Compete, a nonprofit funded by the Knight Foundation, and it's in partnership with The Advertising Council.

EveryoneOn "aims to help the millions of Americans who do not have the digital literacy skills they need to succeed and help them understand the relevance the Internet has in their lives. Whether it's finding a job, helping their children complete homework for school or accessing e-commerce, electronic medical records and connecting with distant family, it is vital that we encourage every American to take advantage of the tools they need to succeed."

The program aims to engage adults with little or no internet or computer experience. There's a special focus on minorities. Communities can launch their own websites incorporating localized versions of EveryoneOn materials -- as Charlotte, N.C. has done. Or they can simply direct community members to resources on the EveryoneOn.org website.

Program materials and tools (available in English and Spanish) include:

• Localizable PSAs, flyers, postcards, and other publicity materials.
• Training locator tool, where you can list local digital training providers, services and events -- and embed that on your website as a searchable database.
• Guidance on using social media and PSAs to engage your community.
• A facilitated curriculum to use in local digital training, and participant certificates.
• DigitalLearn, an online hub for self-paced digital literacy education and resources for both end-users and trainers.
• Resources for engaging stakeholders, such as local and state governments or community groups.
• A webinar for local or state leaders interested in building digitally inclusive communities.

This week, EveryoneOn announced it will also provide Philadelphia residents living in certain zip codes with 75% discounts on high-speed internet packages; as well as laptops for as little as $150.

For more info, e-mail:

• Brian Vahaly, Connect2Compete
• Dzu Vien Bui, The Advertising Council