Philanthropist Ms. Kathleen Patton is not only one of the Cofounders of Crossing the Digital Divide, she is also the organization’s CEO and Executive Director. With a solid background in business, having started her first NPO in her early twenties, Kathleen Patton was more than prepared to take on the challenge of opening a computer training facility. This facility has been on the cutting edge of “Reentry Programs”. City officials are heralding RP’s as being vital to the cities success as they offer support to some of the most at-risk adults who are recovering from drug abuse and other challenges. Kathleen Patton’s organization, which was formed in January 2004, gives recovering addicts the opportunity to change their lives by learning how to use today’s technology to earn a living. Crossing the Digital Divide, which is located in Los Angeles, California, has three locations to better serve the community of high-risk adults in recovery.

Kathleen Patton utilizes her business smarts to manage and oversee the operations at Crossing the Digital Divide. Because of Kathleen Patton’s efforts, the Crossing the Digital Divide staff, and the numerous volunteers, Crossing the Digital Divide is an award-winning organization that has received recognition from the local government, including the mayor of the city of Los Angeles.

In addition to her work with CDD, Ms. Kathleen Patton also enjoys a close family, friends and colleagues. Kathleen Patton relaxes by participating in swimming, volleyball, hiking, music and film.

Kathleen Patton finds special meaning in the quote, “The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy.” Ms. Kathleen Patton also finds inspiration and deep meaning in a quote credited to one of her favorite writers, world-renowned author and poet Maya Angelou: "All great achievements require time."

CDD Class Report Cri-Help 9-15-10

                                            WEEKLY CLASS REPORT

Cri-Help / 9-15-10

 

 

Opening Comments:

Our class went very well and all students were cooperative and involved in the learning process.

 

INTRODUCTIONS OR OVERVIEW:

Ryan had everyone take their seat and took roll. Both he and Beverly introduced themselves and told why they volunteered.  He led student introductions and the assignment of Student Manuals.  Two groups were created for lab time.

 

1ST TOPIC COVERED:

An overview of the course was begun by Ryan. Beverly joined in the discussion of today’s topics, which included and introduction to the requirements of the 500-word paper.   Both Beverly and Ryan went over the general class outline, reviewed class rules and gave an explanation of the required assignments and tests.

2ND TOPIC COVERED:

Both Beverly and Ryan led an explanation and discussion on the written paper and presentation assignment.  We explained the paper and included some group brainstorming on general and individual goals. We discussed the benefits of working in teams and giving oral presentations.

 

ADDITIONAL TOPICS:

-- Beverly led the discussion of the first 6 terms while Ryan provided actual visuals when appropriate followed by a brief review of using the mouse.  Followed by lab time for all students.

 

LAB TIME:

Most students were new technology users.  The class was divided into two groups to allow each student use of a computer.  Beverly worked with the group that took time to work in pairs to explore ideas for their papers.  Ryan worked with others at the computer.  Most students worked on Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing.

 

 

FINAL NOTES:

Since this is a relatively small class, we were able to provide extra attention to all students in need of it. At the end of the class we had a Q&A period and collected all workbooks.