Digital NEST Inc.

Causes: Children & Youth, Computer Science, Economic Development, Job Training, Technology, Youth Development Programs

Mission: Digital NEST provides underserved Latinx youth in California with the skills, resources, and network to build confidence and launch successful careers. Founded in 2014, The NEST is a thriving youth workforce development center that provides technical and essential "soft" skills training to empower and prepare young people for academic success and the ability to prosper in the 21st Century workforce. Serving predominantly Latinx youth in the neglected agricultural and rural communities of Watsonville and Salinas, CA, the NEST is a safe, collaborative space for youth between the ages of 14 to 24, and has connected more than 2,400 vulnerable youth to the latest digital technology, powerful skill-based, STEM-inspired training programs, and a transformative community of mentors and advocates. The NEST's unique combination of technical skills training and "soft skills training (e.g. project management, communications, marketing, etc.) prepares youth to advance their academic pursuits and/or to join the regional workforce on a high-quality career track. By exploring the diverse offerings of the Digital NEST curriculum, members develop self-confidence, self-efficacy, and a clearer vision for their path to success. They also acquire the skills to adapt to the rapidly evolving technological needs of local industries, making them highly valued by local job recruiters. The NEST also offers on-the-job training where NEST members work directly with real clients and gain valuable experience as paid consultants on video, web development, and graphic design projects for local businesses. These advanced members earn much-needed money for themselves and their families, develop their professional skills, build social capital, and get on-the-job experience that gives them a competitive edge in the job market. These members are able to put food on the table while they do work that builds personal portfolios, stimulates community-driven economic development, and launches careers.