FREE GEEK

Free Geek was excited to partner with HOLLA School School to provide a hands-on Canva workshop for students, helping them build digital design skills they can use for school, careers, and creative expression. During the class, students learned the fundamentals of Canva, including how to create professional looking presentations, graphics, and digital content while developing valuable digital literacy skills.

To help ensure they can continue learning beyond the classroom, each participating student also received a laptop from Free Geek giving them the tools they need to practice their new skills, complete schoolwork, and explore future opportunities.

Holla School is dedicated to empowering Black and Brown youth through culturally responsive education, leadership development, and academic enrichment. We’re proud to partner with organizations that are creating equitable opportunities and investing in the next generation.

This month, Free Geek partnered with Home Forward at a new community location to help residents build the skills they need to stay safe and connected online.

Our Digital Navigators led an Internet Safety class, sharing practical tips on protecting personal information, recognizing scams, and navigating the digital world with confidence. Participants will also receive free laptops and ongoing 1:1 digital navigation support to help them put their new skills into practice.

By combining digital skills training, access to technology, and personalized support, we’re helping bridge the digital divide and empower community members with the tools they need to thrive.

Today, we at Free Geek honor Juneteenth. On June 19, 1865, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned they were free two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day became Juneteenth: a celebration of Black freedom, resilience, and the ongoing work of justice.

At Free Geek, we know that freedom without access isn’t full freedom. The digital divide falls hardest on Black communities by cutting people off from jobs, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. That’s why our mission isn’t just to recycle technology. It’s to put real tools in real hands, and to show up for the communities that systems have historically left behind.

We’re proud to partner with organizations and community change organizations serving Portland’s Black communities. We honor Juneteenth by continuing to show up and building a more equitable digital future. Show up, educate, learn, reflect, and celebrate.