One of the highlights of the recent Buen Vecino grand opening was Spectrum’s generous donation of $15,000 to support the development of the Buen Vecino Digital Learning Lab. The learning lab, located on the grounds of Buen Vecino, the Osceola Council on Aging’s newest senior housing complex will provide residents with access to instructor-led digital literacy training.
Located in Buenaventura Lakes, Buen Vecino is one of several OCOA housing communities developed to provide safe, stable, and accessible residential living for Osceola seniors. The vision was not only designed to support independent living, but also provide access to community services, transportation, and connections to local resources. This innovative Digital Learning Lab is just one more avenue to keep our seniors connected, but this time, through technology.
“Technology is advancing rapidly, and older adults deserve the tools, training and support needed to keep pace. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to offer a secure, computer lab for our new residents within the new Buen Vecino property,” said Angelica Rodriguez, Osceola Council on Aging’s Vice-President of Housing.
The team has the preliminary lab built out, with residents already utilizing. “This learning center will help seniors navigate computers for better access to healthcare portals, telehealth services, Medicare and Social Security resources, online banking, and other digital services which are essential,” Rodriguez added.
As the OCOA does with majority of our social service programs, our goal is to not only support computer literacy but empower seniors with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to remain connected and independent in today’s digital world with ongoing education.
“Reliable internet access is foundational to a strong economy and a thriving community,” said Osceola County District 5 Commissioner Ricky Booth, who was instrumental in the Spectrum collaboration. “Whether it be a student completing homework, a resident accessing telehealth, or a small business serving customers, connectivity is of the utmost importance.
“This partnership with Spectrum reflects our shared commitment to expanding access and closing the digital divide across Osceola County.”
The grant is part of Spectrum’s Beyond the Build initiative, a program which has supported a myriad of Central Florida organizations working to expand digital literacy, increase access to technology, and bring high-speed internet services to more than 2,000 homes and small businesses.
“Spectrum will continue to bring gigabit broadband to unserved communities in Florida and across America,” said Kevin Allen, Area Vice President of Field Operations, for Spectrum. “Our investment to providing local residents and small businesses superior connectivity at highly competitive prices is backed by a team of skilled local technicians and 100% U.S.-based customer service.”
We thank Spectrum for their kindness and generosity, not just for our seniors who will be living within our newest housing complex, but for their ongoing initiatives to support the Osceola County community, and many other locations across the Central Florida region.
Due to the overwhelming need for affordable senior housing in the Osceola County community, Buen Vecino is at full occupancy with our team no longer accepting applications. For questions regarding other OCOA senior housing communities, contact the OCOA at 321-333-1064, or housing@osceola-coa.com.
