Project Connect
In 2020 Step Ahead began an innovative new project to help connect members to the wonders of the Internet and the World Wide Web. Something most of the population take for granted. Through trial and error we have managed to find a system that works. Now Step Ahead members can have the devices, skills, knowledge and confidence to join the digital world.
The Ministry of Social Development have agreed to support Step Ahead to continue this amazing project and are providing funding to the end of 2023 to help make sure as many people as possible take up the scheme. A very big thank you to MSD!
To be eligible for a device you must be a Step Ahead member. If you are already a Step Ahead member please call in or ask about Project Connect when you are next at Step Ahead.
If you are an NGO in Canterbury and would like your clients to be able to access this service please email info@stepahead.org.nz.
So where does this start?
We begin by talking to our members, one at a time, to find out what phone, or device they are currently using (if anything) what data plans they are on and what they do online. Some members have no experience at all and some have quite a lot of knowledge.
Next we talk to members about the best device for them. There are three options: a smart phone, a tablet or a laptop. Once a device is issued it’s all about the training, gradually increasing member’s skills and knowledge about the benefits available.
At the time of issue we set up the device to best suit the members needs and do some basic training. Members then undertake one on one training and attend tech user group sessions to gain basic skills in using their devices. Once a basic level of proficiency is shown members are awarded a Key Competency Certificate.
Digital Inclusion Alliance Partnership
Thanks to the Digital Inclusion Alliance Aotearoa and Skinny Jump we can supply members with a modem so they can connect to the Internet from home.
At only $5 for 35GB of data up to a maximum of $30 for 210GB, Skinny Jump is only a quarter of the price of any other commercial plan. We assist with this to make sure everything is working the way it should.
Laptops
The 14-inch Acer Swift offered by Project Connect contains a 256GB SSD drive, 8GB memory and runs Windows 11
Phones
The phone currently provided through Project Connect is the 6.6-inch Samsung A13 with 4GB of RAM, multiple cameras and plenty of storage, running Android 10.
Tablets
Project Connect provides the Samsung Tab A8 tablet, with a 10.5-inch screen, 4GB of RAM, 64GB storage and runs Android 9.0 Pie
User Groups
To learn more about phones, tablets or chromebooks please come along to one of our user groups.
Competency Certificates
To achieve a Competency Certificate you will need to know how to do some basic skills on your electronic device. We will work with you to achieve these skills.
Skinny Jump
At only $5 for 35GB of data up to a maximum of $30 for 210GB, Skinny Jump is only a quarter of the price of any other commercial plan.