WAGRO Foundation launches digital and tech literacy for Latino seniors

The WAGRO Foundation has launched “Bridging Generations: Access to Technology and Digital Literacy for Latino Seniors,” a program aimed at improving digital access for Latino and low-income older adults across Snohomish County.

The initiative provides bilingual (Spanish/English) digital literacy training in community locations, including libraries, senior and resource centers, food banks, schools, community colleges and faith-based organizations.

The program held its first session this month at the Verdant Health Commission in Lynnwood. The workshop was organized by WAGRO co-founder Dr. Julieta Altamirano Crosby and led by Suleiny Altamirano. Attendees learned about:

• Communication tools such as WhatsApp, text messaging, photo sharing, voice notes and video calls
• Email basics, including account creation, messaging and attachments
• Video platforms such as Zoom, FaceTime and Google Meet
• Transportation tools such as Google Maps and ride-share applications
• Accessing healthcare services, including telehealth platforms and appointment scheduling
• Internet navigation and access to community and library resources
• Online safety, including fraud awareness and password protection
• Digital independence, including paying bills, accessing benefits and managing accounts

The program focuses on practical digital skills, including smartphone and tablet use, email, video calling, transportation apps, telehealth access, internet navigation and online safety. Workshops are designed to be hands-on and adaptable to participants’ experience levels.

“Digital access is no longer optional, it is essential to health, connection, and independence,” said WAGRO Cofounder Dr. Julieta Altamirano Crosby. “This initiative is not only about technology; it is about restoring dignity, strengthening autonomy, and ensuring that our elders remain connected and supported.”

The program uses an intergenerational model, pairing seniors with youth and adult volunteers who serve as mentors during training sessions. It is supported by a grant from the Community Foundation of Snohomish County and includes collaboration with the Snohomish County Transportation Coalition to expand access to transportation resources.

The session was conducted in collaboration with Marines Scaramazza, who works with older adults through Homage and Aging & Disability Resources. Scaramazza regularly leads a group of older adults that meets at Verdant and helped coordinate participation in the training.