Timeline

Our past accomplishments and future goals

AFN initiates efforts to eliminate Digital Divide

Austin Free-Net (AFN) is established to combat the digital divide and eliminate digital barriers in Austin. As one of the first organizations dedicated solely to digital inclusion in the country, AFN maintained public computer labs and offered one-to-one computer assistance.

1995

Expansion of Programs

Through the federal Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP), AFN expands its service programs across the city of Austin. These programs include digital literacy training and hosting of open-access computer labs. AFN began to share knowledge and expertise with Technology for All (TFA) and the Metropolitan Austin Interactive Network (MAIN).

2010

Combined effort with Partners

AFN opens more public-access labs and begins the Tech Starters program, a partnership with the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) and Google Fiber, to both train and provide laptops to people in public housing.

2014

Future Plans

Austin Free-Net is preparing to launch Tech Starters 2 for the graduates of the 2014 program. AFN will facilitate the Digital Inclusion Workgroup - a convening of citywide stakeholders interested in digital inclusion.

2016

What our volunteers say

"Today has been a blessing! I was able to assist someone with several items in the Digital Obstacle course as well as complete what was required of myself from yesterday and today. Managing my time and working diligently are paying off well, and I do not feel rushed or overwhelmed."

10.29.2015 - Kimberlyn Barton-Reyes

What our clients say

Client Testimonials

"[I learned] how to work together with different languages and [helped] everyone learn how to work [with] Google Fiber to help others learn. Thank you all!"

Deirdre Leban

Client - Access to Technology

"For me it was very important becuase I learned about my potential and the value of learning. [Austin Free-Net] helped me to know how important computers are."

Julia C. Matamoros

Client - Hardware and software technology

"When I started at the class, I was a little intimidated by the new technology and computer programs. Initially it was time consuming and frustrating, but...the one-on-one help I got from the Trainer made it easier."