Kentucky nonprofit expands program, matching tech-savvy teens with local organizations

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Technology moves fast and it can leave some people behind, feeling less than intelligent when using those so called "smart devices."

It's why Kentucky nonprofit Connected Nation launched its Teens Teach Tech program.

Students partner with all types of organizations to teach technology to their community, like how to use smart devices, email and surf the internet. The ultimate goal is to bridge the digital divide.

The Kentucky-based program expanded this year to 17 states and taught 12,000 people technology, according to organizers.

Connected Nation celebrated the effort at the Somali Community Center in Louisville on Monday.

"We have this power in our community as far as teens were concerned that we could harness and encourage and really build a critical mass that helps us solve the problem of the digital divide," said Heather Gate, vice president of digital inclusion for Connected Nation.

Students receive financial incentives and community service credits at school for their participation. AT&T helps sponsor the program.