Submitted by: Teresa Valenzuela, Community Outreach Manager, San Diego Futures Foundation

For a decade, the San Diego Futures Foundation has been a steadfast partner of Live Well San Diego, championing the same core principles: a healthy, safe, and thriving region for all. Our work emphasizes that digital empowerment is a fundamental pillar of community well-being. By bridging the digital divide, we contribute to a more connected, educated, and resilient San Diego.  

Our mission is brought to life through a powerful community-wide circular economy. We partner with municipalities, universities, and businesses who generously donate their electronic devices and then we breathe new life into every piece of technology, turning a potential landfill problem into a powerful solution. By meticulously refurbishing donated electronics, we’ve created a powerful cycle that takes us from e-waste to a future where digital literacy and connection are accessible to everyone.  

We have proudly distributed over 65,000 low-cost computers and provided free devices to more than 2,500 nonprofits. A highlight of our commitment is our 24th Annual Foster Family Computer Donation Program, which has provided over 4,500 computers to foster parents and transitioning youth.  

In addition to hardware, we offer a pathway to digital fluency. We have provided thousands of digital learning hours through free workshops and classes, covering everything from foundational skills to advanced applications. This commitment extends to a unique program we launched in 2018, called the Adaptive Technology Department. From this innovative initiative, blind and visually impaired instructors educate students with similar impairments on computer usage, creating an empowering and supportive learning environment that truly leaves no one behind.  

Voices of Our Community  

The true impact of our work is best captured in the personal stories of those we serve. These voices are a powerful reminder of how technology, combined with compassion, helps individuals live well.  

"The class was amazing; the teacher would make sure we all understood the assignments & would answer all our questions. Thank you so much for this class & learning something new." - Sylvia Nunez   

"The digital literacy classes transformed my confidence. I can now navigate the internet and connect with family, which has opened up a whole new world for me." - Pooja Mehta  

"¡Excelente! Nos da mucho gusto que hayas tenido tu primera clase. Esperamos que aprendas muchísimo y que pronto uses tu celular como todo un experto. ¡Estamos aquí para ayudarte en lo que necesites!" - Narciso Mariscal  

As we celebrate this milestone, the San Diego Futures Foundation remains committed to our partnership with Live Well San Diego. We will continue our work dedicated to creating a future where digital access is a reality for all, ensuring every person can thrive and live well in our vibrant region. Learn more about San Diego Futures Foundation at sdfutures.org.