One Economy Corporation started in 2001 as the premier American nonprofit addressing the digital divide, determined to improve communities by sharing the power of technology. Over the years, it has been a leading advocate for all people to enjoy access to the Internet in their homes. In addition to the Beehive website which has provided access to the community development information, One Economy has started the Hive, a unique school for low-income students in North Carolina, implemented a digital literacy and leadership training program for more than 5,000 youth called Community Connectors, and operated MyFreeTaxes.com in partnership with Walmart.com, offering 10,000 free online filings in 2013 alone.
Greater examination by private and public (ARRA-related) of this One Economy Corporation financials & capacity is greatly needed given the increasing number of lay offs of employees tasked with delivering on the 26+ million ARRA grant, which is counter to the intent of the job creation goals of ARRA. Most notable is the diversion of current and previous grant funds for other purposes and lack of transparency.