DC Senior Technology Program
The D.C. Senior Technology Program (formerly the DC Senior iPad Program) was created and administered by WildTech through a grant from the District of Columbia Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL). Starting in July of 2020, its mission was to reduce isolation and improve nutrition and health, all while improving the ability for DC seniors to social distance in the midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic. We achieved this by providing free Apple iPads, training, programming, and support to seniors who lack computers. Due to its success, we gained the support of the Washington Home Foundation and the Greater Washington Community Foundation, which now provide the majority of funding.
Starting in 2026, The Washington Home Foundation instituted a cutting-edge grant program that now links WildTech and its technology products and services to every major senior service provider in DC. As a result, the DC Senior Technology program has become a lasting lifeline for 2,500 and growing seniors we continue to serve with free laptop computers (quantities limited), training, programming and support.
WildTech enrolled, provided iPads, and trained more than 400 D.C. seniors in 2020 and 2021. From 2022 through 2024, WildTech brought in more than 700 additional D.C. seniors. Starting in 2025, we are providing quality refurbished laptop computers (quantities limited), training, and support.
After learning how to use their iPads or laptops through the basic courses we provide, seniors participate in advanced tech classes, senior-led presentations, and social hours. Guest speakers are also brought in to educate senior participants about services available in D.C.
We conduct weekly live programming during face-to-face visits at senior service facilities and virtually via Zoom, giving ample opportunities to educate and reduce social isolation. Many participants tell us the daily engagements and access to resources have been life-changing!
Benefits of the Program
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We provide virtual social interaction for isolated seniors 5 times a week.
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We provide technology that helps seniors connect with friends, family, government services, medical assistance, and community groups.
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Our seniors report that they use their devices to read books, listen to music, attend religious services, order groceries, watch movies, take pictures, and read the news.
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The Senior Technology Program follows WildTech's 7 Pillars of Digital Inclusion.
We're Making a Difference!
Our Participants Say
"This is my lifeline...a lot of us would be sitting here lonely, crying all day, trying to figure out what to do with our lives because at one time we were healthy individuals and then we became ill. And when we got on the iPad, a new sunshine opened up."
Diane Leach, Senior Program Participant
We Serve Large Numbers
Our adaptable program simultaneously serves large numbers of seniors in both group and one-on-one sessions while also providing customized accessibility solutions for those requiring specialized support.
10,000 +
Help Desk calls addressed
60,000 +
Class attendances
1500 +
Hour-long, 1:1 training sessions held with seniors
Supported by The Washington Home Foundation, The Greater Washington Community Foundation, and The D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL)