Digital Literacy Course

Program Overview

• This Digital Literacy Course is designed to support the successful reentry of formerly incarcerated individuals by equipping them with essential digital skills. 

• Instructed by Ravi Ramsaran, each cohort will consist of 8-10 participants. Course sessions will be held on Mondays 6:00pm-8:00pm at RCSG headquarters: 32 Prince Street, Newark, NJ 07675. Each cohort will run for 8 consecutive weeks

Course Expectations  

• All prospective participants will do an intake interview with an RCSG staff member, who will review and verify eligibility (criteria described below). Exceptions to the eligibility criteria may be granted, but will require approval from the Program Director. Failure to meet the eligibility requirements may result in denial of admission or removal from the program. 

• Participants who complete the full 8 weeks of the digital literacy course will receive a Certificate of Completion (participants may add this to their resume). Attendance will be recorded at each course session. 

• Laptops will be provided for all course participants. Participants do not need to bring anything to course sessions, other than their full attention and commitment to course participation. 

  • Free Laptop Incentive Policy 

    • Participants released from incarceration within the past twelve (12) months of their enrollment date will be eligible to receive a free laptop upon successful completion of the Digital Literacy Course. 

Eligibility Requirements 

To maintain program integrity and ensure resources are allocated appropriately, the following eligibility criteria shall apply to all prospective participants. 

• Formerly Incarcerated Status 

  • All participants shall be system-impacted individuals (people who have served time in jail/prison or family members). 

  • Verification of status may be required during the intake process. 

• Residency Requirement 

  • Participants shall currently reside within Essex County, NJ borders, as that is the designated service area defined by Returning Citizens Support Group. 

• Program Commitment 

  • Participants will be required to attend all scheduled sessions, complete the required coursework, and adhere to the code of conduct as outlined in this packet to remain in good standing. 

  • Participants will be required to complete an intake assessment with an RCSG staff member to gather basic information.