December Newsletter
As the year comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the meaningful connections we’ve built and the incredible support we’ve received. Thanks to your generosity, especially during Giving Tuesday and ExtraGive, we’re able to continue expanding programs and partnerships that help communities thrive in a digital world.
We’re deeply grateful for every contribution, every shared story, and every show of support. As we look ahead to 2026, we invite you to stay connected with us and consider continuing your support. Together, we can bring digital access and opportunities to those who need it most.
Thank you, and warm wishes for a joyful holiday season.
- Nathan Flood
President & CEO, KINBER
KINBER to Launch Digital Access and Support Hubs
KINBER is excited to announce the upcoming launch of its new Digital Access and Support Hubs initiative, designed to help community partners develop digital learning labs that expand internet access and deliver digital skills training. The first digital learning lab sites will launch at Redbank Valley Public Library (Clarion County) and Factory Ministries (Lancaster County), with additional sites opening in early 2026 in Forest, Huntingdon, and Tioga counties.
Through this initiative, KINBER will equip partners with laptops, accessories, and digital skills training curriculum, supporting the creation of digital learning labs, as well as local laptop loan programs at some locations. These community resources will strengthen workforce development, improve access to education and employment, and enhance opportunities for remote health services.
Additional partners will be announced as the program expands. The initiative is supported through a COVID-19 ARPA Digital Connectivity Technology Program grant administered by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority. For partnership inquiries, please contact Will Perez, Associate Director of Programs, at wperez@KINBER.org
NextGen Navigators™
We welcomed our second student cohort of NextGen Navigators for an energizing and productive kick-off session! Ephrata High School students jumped into STEM career exploration and got a first look at the digital navigator programs they’ll soon be bringing to their community. This initiative is supported by the Lancaster County STEM Alliance.
KINBER MOR Leaders Program
Last week, the 2026 cohort of the KINBER MOR Leaders Program convened for a two-day virtual workshop on Strategic Thinking in Leadership. Through large group workshops, small breakouts and individual focus time, participants learned and practiced skills to sharpen their creative, effective, strategic thinking as leaders in their organization. KINBER President and CEO Nathan Flood also made an appearance as a guest speaker to share his leadership journey and lessons learned along the way. KINBER is proud to sponsor such a transformative & impactful program!
Ready to join the next cohort?
Learn more➡️ www.KINBER.org/MOR
The KeystoneREN team has been busy! From Missouri to Colorado, they proudly represented the Commonwealth at both #SC25 and Internet2's TechEX25. Be sure to follow KeystoneREN so you don’t miss out on future updates and the chance to connect with them at upcoming events.
Now’s the perfect time to make sure you’re following STEM-UP Network. This past year brought incredible successes from NextGen Women in STEM™ events to Virtual Networking and Book Club, and our community has never felt more connected. Give STEM-UP Network a follow so you can stay engaged and be part of the movement in 2026.