On July 28, United Way Fox Cities partnered with the Appleton Public Library to host a Techquity distribution event, where more than 50 pre-registered residents received a no-cost, long-term loaned laptop to help them connect at home, work, or school.

Techquity is a statewide initiative led by United Way of Wisconsin to close the digital divide and ensure that technology is accessible, affordable, and easy to use for everyone. As the regional distribution partner for Northeast Wisconsin, United Way Fox Cities has already provided over 400 laptops since April, along with digital navigation support. The goal for our region is to distribute 4,000 devices by September 2026.

“Access to technology changes everything,” says Nina Rubin, Digital Navigator at United Way Fox Cities. “From applying for jobs to helping kids with homework, so many parts of daily life now depend on being connected. Techquity is about making sure no one is left behind.”

At the Appleton event, library volunteers guided participants through logging in, adjusting settings, and exploring their new devices to make sure each recipient left with both the tools and the confidence to use them.

Techquity participants also gain access to ongoing digital navigation support, where they can learn new skills, troubleshoot problems, and connect with free online training opportunities. Many courses lead to industry-recognized credentials, opening doors to new career paths.

By breaking down barriers to technology, Techquity helps more people across Wisconsin fully participate in the digital world and take the next step toward their goals.