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The computer classes began in 1996 as a response to the high unemployment rate in the county. At the time, the demand for coal was low and the county was trying to attact IT companies.
The computer program was created in partnership with an anti-poverty organization, the Fourth World Movement . One of its full-time volunteers set up the free program for adults with donated second-hand computers and two new computers secured through a grant.
The classes are given in morning and evening sessions that meet twice a week for a period of eight to ten weeks. There are usually four sessions a year. A sessions for beginners covers computer basics and a more advanced sessions for those somewhat familiar with computers. This session covers computer programs used in business and education. The classes are small (maximum of six people), allowing individual attention and each participant at a computer.
Close to 500 adults have taken the classes since they began. Lending computers are available to participants.
The biggest challenge is to update the computers and programs so the participants are using current material. Donations of fairly recent computers and contributions are always welcomed.