About Us

OUR MISSION: Community Technology Network (CTN) catalyzes and advocates for digital inclusion and literacy by providing training, mentorship, networking and volunteers to underserved communities in the San Francisco Bay Area.

OVERVIEW: CTN initiates and manages partnerships with public technology center managers and constituents to equip low-income residents of Bay Area housing developments with the technological tools and resources they need to explore educational, professional and social opportunities in and beyond their communities. 

CTN enables peer feedback and support that empowers community technology practitioners to leverage, develop and improve upon curricula and services. In this communal workflow, practitioners develop innovative courses and products, explore ideas and disseminate resources directly to colleagues throughout the region.

HISTORY: In August 2001, at a regional community technology meeting of the America Connects Consortium, CompuMentor (now called TechSoup Global) first established CTN. As a CompuMentor program, CTN thrived as a regional collaboration of informed technology and community empowerment professionals. In its first five years, CTN hosted several successful events and, as a byproduct, produced valuable resource materials. CTN also established Best Practices Guides using accumulated feedback from community technology practitioners. In 2006, TechSoup Global’s national and international focus prompted its transition away from CTN. Subsequently, a committee led by Barrie Hathaway, Chairman of the Board at CTN, gathered to assess community needs and determine CTN’s direction. This committee’s interviews and surveys of more than 25 community technology agencies, yielded results proving CTN’s continued relevance and viability. In June 2008, with funding from the Full Circle Fund, CTN received 501(c)3 status.

Today, a 16-member Board of Directors and a part-time Executive Director manage CTN. Leadership consists of community and business leaders, including directors and technology advocates from Bay Area non-profits. This committee directs organizational priorities, including curricular and business activities, content development and events.