In a transformative step toward digital equity, Tech Across Borders (TAB) and Grace Combined School in Vieux Fort, St. Lucia, have unveiled a newly restored resource room turned computer lab. This initiative, powered by a generous donation from CoStar Real Estate Manager, has not only equipped the school with a state-of-the-art computer lab but also provided thirteen laptops to teachers, ensuring both students and educators have access to critical digital tools. The launch of the DEEP Academy and the DEEP Assist program marks a new chapter of opportunity for the community and sets a precedent for holistic digital empowerment in Caribbean schools.

From Resource Room to Digital Hub

The journey to creating a fully functional computer lab at Grace Combined School began with the vision of TAB to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. The donated devices from CoStar Real Estate Manager were shipped from Miami to St. Lucia and facilitated by the Department of Education, which oversaw the final transport of the equipment to the school. Once delivered, the lab’s installation was completed with the support of Mr. Aimable, the regional IT Officer for the district.

“This lab is more than a room filled with computers; it is a beacon of hope and progress for our students and teachers,” said Mr. Cooman, principal of Grace Combined School. “Our community has long needed access to technology, and now, with this lab, we are empowering our students to step into a digital future. I am grateful to Tech Across Borders for making this possible and to our district for their unwavering support.”

Empowering Teachers for Digital Education

In addition to the computer lab, TAB provided thirteen laptops to the school’s teaching staff. This gesture ensures that educators are equipped to integrate technology into their teaching methods, fostering a culture of digital literacy within the school.

“With these laptops, our teachers can not only prepare lessons more effectively but also engage students with innovative tools and methods,” said the principal. “This contribution will have a long-lasting impact on how we educate our children.”

A Holistic Approach to Digital Equity

TAB’s approach to closing the digital divide goes beyond simply providing devices. Through their Digital Equity and Empowerment Project (DEEP) consisting of three core programs—DEEP Access, DEEP Academy, and DEEP Assist—they take a comprehensive, sustainable approach to addressing the root causes of digital inequity.

1. DEEP Access ensures that schools like Grace Combined receive the necessary devices to foster digital learning.
2. DEEP Academy provides learning opportunities through digital classes for students. This program, which will launch at Grace Combined School, introduces children to digital literacy, and essential online tools, preparing them for a competitive global environment.
3. DEEP Assist offers ongoing technical support and training for educators to ensure sustainability. Through DEEP Assist, teachers at Grace Combined School will have access to expert guidance and troubleshooting to maintain the functionality of their new lab and devices.

“We designed our DEEP programs to ensure that communities are not just handed devices but are fully equipped to integrate technology into education sustainably,” said Kay Trim-Dorival, President of Tech Across Borders. “Through DEEP Access, DEEP Academy, and DEEP Assist, we are committed to providing tools, knowledge, and long-term support. At Grace Combined School, we are seeing the full potential of this model in action.”

Building the Future: The Launch of DEEP Academy

The launch of DEEP Academy at Grace Combined School is one of the most significant milestones in this initiative. The academy will offer structured classes that introduce students to essential digital skills, such as online safety, learning platforms and multimedia creation. By integrating these classes into the school’s curriculum, TAB ensures that every student benefits from digital education, regardless of their background.

“This is more than just a computer lab—it’s a gateway to endless opportunities,” said Kay. “With DEEP Academy, we’re not just teaching students how to use computers; we’re equipping them with skills that will allow them to thrive in the digital economy. This is the future of education, and we’re honored to help bring it to the students of Grace Combined School.”

Sustainability Through DEEP Assist

TAB’s commitment doesn’t end with the donation or installation of the devices. Through DEEP Assist, the organization ensures that the equipment is maintained, and educators are supported. Teachers at Grace Combined School will receive ongoing technical training, troubleshooting support, and access to resources that enable them to use the technology effectively.

“Providing these devices is just the first step,” explained Kay. “Through DEEP Assist, we’ll be there for the teachers and students, ensuring the lab is functional, and the educators feel confident in using the technology to enhance learning.”

CoStar Real Estate Manager: A Vital Partner in Empowerment

This project would not have been possible without the support of CoStar Real Estate Manager, whose generous donation of 50 desktop computers and monitors formed the foundation of this initiative. The devices were part of CoStar’s corporate social responsibility efforts to foster community development and digital equity.

Community Impact and Vision for the Future

The establishment of the computer lab at Grace Combined School has created ripples of hope throughout the community. For many students, this is their first exposure to modern technology, opening up possibilities they may never have considered before.

“The computer lab is already a favorite spot for our students,” said the principal. “They are excited to learn, explore, and dream. We’ve seen such enthusiasm from the children, and it gives us hope for a brighter future for this community.”

Parents have also expressed their gratitude for the new lab and the opportunities it provides their children. In a region where access to technology is limited, this initiative has the potential to change lives.

 

The Bigger Picture: Bridging the Digital Divide in the Caribbean

The collaboration between Tech Across Borders, Grace Combined School, and CoStar Real Estate Manager is part of a larger effort to bring digital equity to communities across the Caribbean. TAB’s holistic approach, which combines access, education, and support, is proving to be a powerful model for change.

“Digital equity is not just about access to devices; it’s about empowering communities to use technology as a tool for growth and opportunity,” said Kay. “We believe every child deserves a chance to thrive in the digital world, and this is just the beginning. We’re excited to partner with more schools, organizations, and communities to expand this mission.”

 Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

As the new computer lab at Grace Combined School begins to transform the lives of students and teachers, TAB is looking ahead to future collaborations. The organization is calling on businesses, non-profits, and individuals to join the mission to bridge the digital divide.

“There is so much more work to be done,” said Kay. “This project is proof of what can happen when we come together for a common goal. We invite others to be a part of this journey and help us create a world where everyone has access to the tools they need to succeed.”

Conclusion

The transformation of a resource room into a modern computer lab at Grace Combined School is a testament to the power of collaboration and vision. Through the efforts of Tech Across Borders, CoStar Real Estate Manager, the St. Lucia Department of Education, and local champions like Mr. Aimable, students and teachers in Grace, Vieux Fort, now have access to the technology they need to succeed.

With the launch of DEEP Academy and ongoing support through DEEP Assist, TAB is setting a new standard for holistic digital empowerment in the Caribbean. The story of Grace Combined School is just one chapter in a larger mission to close the digital divide and create opportunities for all.

Tech Across Borders continues to work tirelessly, one community at a time, turning the promise of digital equity into a tangible reality.

Support our mission and get involved. Together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future!

CoStar Real Estate Manager Donates 50 Desktop, Laptops, Monitors to Tech Across Borders, Empowering Digital Equity in the Caribbean

In a heartwarming act of generosity, CoStar Real Estate Manager, headquartered in Atlanta, GA, has donated 50 desktop computers, laptops and monitors to Tech Across Borders, a non-profit organization devoted to advancing digital equity and empowerment in the Caribbean region. This collaboration highlights the power of community partnerships and a shared commitment to bridging the digital divide for underserved populations.

The initiative represents a significant step forward in Tech Across Borders mission to equip communities with the tools and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. From the donation itself to the logistics of transporting the devices to Miami and preparing them for distribution, every aspect of this event underscores the importance of teamwork and purpose-driven action.

A Vision for Digital Empowerment

Tech Across Borders has been at the forefront of fostering digital inclusion in the Caribbean. By providing access to devices, offering digital skills training, and teaching technical troubleshooting, Tech Across Borders equips individuals and organizations with the means to participate fully in the digital economy. With an unwavering belief in the transformative power of technology, the organization serves as a beacon of hope for those who have long been excluded from digital opportunities.

CoStar Real Estate Manager’s donation of 50 devices comes at a time when Tech Across Borders efforts are more critical than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed and deepened digital inequities, particularly in the Caribbean, where many households and schools lack basic access to devices and reliable internet. By supporting Tech Across Borders, CoStar Real Estate Manager is not only contributing to a meaningful cause but also helping to build a future where everyone, regardless of location or circumstance, can access digital tools and resources.

The Journey from Atlanta to Miami

Turning this generous donation into reality required careful planning and execution. After CoStar Real Estate Manager’s team prepared the devices for transfer, the logistical challenge of moving 50 desktop computers and monitors from Atlanta to Miami began.

The operations crew at Tech Across Borders, based in Miami, rose to the occasion. Driving a fully loaded van, they traveled to CoStar’s headquarters in Atlanta, covering the nearly 700-mile journey with determination and purpose. The crew loaded the devices with care, ensuring their safe transport to Miami, where the next phase of the project would begin.

This leg of the journey was not just about moving hardware; it was about carrying hope and opportunity. Each device represents a chance for a student to learn, a professional to advance their career, or a community organization to expand its reach. The Tech Across Borders operations crew knew that their efforts were laying the groundwork for meaningful change.

Preparing Devices for Deployment

Once the devices arrived in Miami, Tech Across Borders’ technical team set to work cleaning, refurbishing, and packing the devices. This meticulous process is critical to ensuring that each computer is in optimal condition and ready to be deployed to recipients in the Caribbean.

The refurbishment process involves several key steps:

1. Cleaning and Sanitizing: Each device is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to ensure it meets high standards of hygiene and usability.
2. Hardware Checks and Repairs: The team inspects each computer and monitors any hardware issues, replacing faulty components as needed.
3. Software Installation: Essential software, including operating systems, productivity tools, and digital learning applications, is installed to make the devices functional and user-ready.
4. Packaging for Shipping: The refurbished devices are carefully packed to withstand the journey to the Caribbean, where they will be distributed to schools, community centers, and other organizations in need.

The technical team’s work exemplifies Tech Across Borders’ commitment to quality and its focus on delivering long-term value to its beneficiaries. By ensuring that every device is fully functional and equipped with the necessary tools, Tech Across Borders maximizes the impact of CoStar Real Estate Manager’s donation.

Impact on the Caribbean Region

The donation of devices will have a profound impact on communities across the Caribbean. Access to technology is a cornerstone of modern education, economic development, and social inclusion. Yet, for many in the Caribbean, it remains out of reach.

By distributing these devices, Tech Across Borders will empower students to pursue online learning opportunities and for teachers to enhance their classroom instruction. Community centers equipped with these computers can offer digital resources, creating hubs of innovation and opportunity.

The ripple effects of this initiative extend beyond individual users. By fostering digital literacy and inclusion, Tech Across Borders contributes to the overall development of Caribbean societies. Equipped with digital tools and skills, individuals and communities can participate more fully in the global economy, access critical information, and advocate for their rights.

A Partnership That Inspires

The collaboration between CoStar Real Estate Manager and Tech Across Borders is a shining example of how businesses and non-profits can work together to drive meaningful change. CoStar’s decision to donate surplus equipment reflects its commitment to corporate social responsibility and its recognition of the value of supporting underserved communities.

For Tech Across Borders, the partnership is a testament to the power of shared purpose. The organization’s ability to mobilize resources, engage its team, and execute a complex logistical operation demonstrates its capacity to deliver on its mission. Together, CoStar and Tech Across Borders are creating a model for impactful collaboration that other organizations can emulate.

The Road Ahead

While the donation of fifty devices is a significant milestone, Tech Across Borders work is far from finished. The organization continues to seek partnerships, funding, and resources to expand its reach and deepen its impact. From offering advanced digital skills training to advocating for policies that promote digital equity, Tech Across Borders remains committed to creating a future where technology is a tool for empowerment, not exclusion.

CoStar Real Estate Manager’s contribution is a powerful reminder that every action counts. Whether it’s donating devices, volunteering time, or spreading awareness, everyone has a role to play in bridging the digital divide. As Tech Across Borders prepares to distribute the refurbished computers in the Caribbean, it invites others to join its mission and be part of the solution.

Conclusion

The donation of fifty devices by CoStar Real Estate Manager is more than an act of generosity; it is a catalyst for change. Through the dedication of Tech Across Borders team and the support of community partners, this initiative will bring the benefits of technology to those who need it most, fostering digital equity and empowerment across the Caribbean.

As the refurbished devices make their way to schools, homes, and community centers, they will carry with them the promise of a brighter future—one where everyone has the tools to learn, grow, and succeed in the digital age. Together, CoStar Real Estate Manager and Tech Across Borders are proving that technology, when shared with purpose and compassion, can transform lives.