Digital skills training for adults returning home after incarceration
The R.E.B.O.O.T. helps people build confidence with smartphones, online safety, and everyday tech — so they can reconnect with family and access essential services.
3
Week training program with hands-on support
Our Mission
Closing the digital divide, one person at a time
R.E.B.O.O.T. stands for Reentry, Education & Building Opportunities through Online Technology. We believe everyone deserves the chance to navigate the digital world with confidence.
Many returning citizens leave incarceration without the tools or know-how to succeed in a tech-driven world. We provide compassionate, hands-on training so they can apply for jobs, pay bills, connect with family, and access essential services — all on their own.
60–90
Minutes per session
1:1
Support available
Our 3-Week Program
Practical skills for everyday digital life
Small group instruction with hands-on practice and one-on-one support. Completers receive a smartphone or security app subscription and a certificate.
Smartphone Basics, Communication & Apps
Power on/off, charging, home screen, settings, making calls, sending texts, saving contacts, avoiding spam, downloading apps, using maps, weather, calendar, and community resources.
Internet Basics & Online Safety
Connecting to Wi-Fi, using a browser, searching for trusted information, creating accounts, strong passwords, recognizing scams, protecting personal info, and safe browsing.
Reentry Support Through Tech
Using email, online forms, telehealth, benefits, job applications, paying bills, online banking, video calls, and accessing essential services independently.
Why This Matters
Imagine coming home to a world you don't recognize
After years behind bars, the world moves on. Phones change. Apps replace offices. Bills go online. For many returning citizens, the digital world feels like a foreign country — and there's no guidebook.
A Story We Hear Too Often
A grandparent comes home after years away. Their grandkids try to video call — but they don't know how to answer. They stare at the screen while it rings. Someone has to walk them through it like they're starting from scratch.
They feel embarrassed. They've already missed so much — and now they can't even figure out a phone.
This is the reality for thousands of returning citizens. R.E.B.O.O.T. exists so no one has to face the digital world alone. With patient, step-by-step training, people learn to video call their families, pay their own bills, and feel confident again.
This is a composite scenario based on common experiences shared by returning citizens — not a specific individual's story.
68%
of formerly incarcerated adults have never used a smartphone independently
$0
is what most returning citizens have for technology when they walk out the door
3
weeks is all it takes to change someone's relationship with technology forever
You can be the reason someone reconnects with their family
Every dollar you give helps us put a phone in someone's hands, teach them how to use it, and give them back a piece of dignity the system took away. This isn't charity — it's restoration.
Support Our Work
Your donation creates real opportunity
Every contribution helps us provide vital digital skills training and technology access to people rebuilding their lives. We're a 501(c)(3) nonprofit — your donation is tax-deductible.
Donate a Device
Give the gift of digital access. Many returning citizens leave incarceration without the tools needed to succeed in a tech-driven world.
What We Accept
- Smartphones (must power on, not locked)
- Tablets and laptops
- Service plans and hotspots
- Chargers and accessories
Get In Touch
Have questions? We'd love to hear from you.
Whether you're interested in our program, want to partner with us, or just want to learn more — reach out. We typically respond within 24–48 hours.
For Partnership Inquiries
Reentry programs, libraries, colleges, and community organizations — email us at [email protected]