ABOUT NETSPAN SPONSOR: NETSPAN is sponsored by ICOD, Inc.a 501 (c) (3) federal tax-exempt organization incorporated in Clarke County, Georgia in 2000. Its purpose is to provide educational activities to school-aged youth that promote the development of academic and communications skills. FUNDING: In May 2000, the project was awarded a three-year $395,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Education Community Technology Centers Program. MISSION: Expand access to computer technology and demonstrate its educational effectiveness. STRATEGY: Capacity-building in families and community-based organizations by providing Technical Assistance, Technology, and Training. Computer technology resources are shared with community-based organizations that demonstrate the capacity to serve disadvantaged populations. PROGRAMS: NETSPAN supports the development of After-School Programs, Family and Adult Literacy Programs, Career Development Programs, and Small Business Development initiatives. It offers free program development services, advanced software and hardware systems, and training for personnel in network sites and community-based organizations. It collaborates with business organizations to train current or perspective owners of small businesses to use technology for management and enterprise purposes. A Technology Bank maintains tax-deductible new and used resources donated by individuals, families, community-based organizations, and corporate entities. The Home Access Initiative facilitates the transfer of this computer technology to families and individuals in exchange for dollar hours earned through volunteerism and/or achievement in academics, literacy, career development, or small business enterprise. OUTCOME: More people will have the ability to access information and use it to achieve greater self-sufficiency. THE STAFF Project Director..............................................Robert E. Harrison, EdD Dr. Harrison brings over 25 years of experience to the project having previously served as TRIO Program director, training consultant, and grant writer. During his tenure at the University of Georgia, he established Educational Opportunity Center, Educational Talent Search, and Upward Bound projects which, over a 15 year period, generated more than $10 million in funding and served at least 3,000 participants annually. Dr. Harrison is a graduate of Mississippi Valley State University (1968) and holds Doctorate, Specialist, and Masters degrees from the University of Georgia. 337 South Milledge Avenue, Suite 227 Athens, GA 30605-1061 706-583-8001 Fax 706-583-8844 E-mail: netspan@icodinc.org |
