C.R.S.T.T.A. In The News (Story)

NTCA Receives Grant For A Community Technology Center on Cheyenne Reservation

October 17, 2001, Arlington, Va. -The National Telephone Cooperative Association (NTCA) and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Telephone Authority (CRST) have been awarded a one-year, $195,000 grant from the United States Department of Education to establish a community technology center in one of the most economically distressed areas in the U.S. - Eagle Butte, S.D., home of the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation and seat of Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal government.

Courses and individualized training will be offered in practical computer skills, various software applications, and the use of the Internet for formal or informal continuing education. The center will also make use of information technology to increase awareness of options for dealing with health and wellness problems on the reservation, including diabetes, drug and alcohol addiction, teenage pregnancy, and personal financial management.

"There is a serious need on the reservation for greater access by the community to information training," said Michael E. Brunner, NTCA Chief Executive Officer.

"CRST Telephone and Lakota Technologies, Inc. are the two key private sector employers on the reservation. These local enterprises have a growing need for computer-savvy workers but the skilled local labor pool is insufficient. We hope to solve that shortage with this project," said Brunner.

Courses will be targeted at unemployed adults, single mothers and others seeking enhanced job skills. The center will also offer specialized training for employees of local businesses, and technology certification programs.

J.D. Williams, General Manager of the CRST Telephone Authority, said, "When we can train the reservation population in marketable computer skills, good job opportunities won't be far behind. This center will make a big difference in many lives."

Renovation of an existing building will begin immediately, and the center's grand opening is expected in the spring of 2002.

For more information on the Community Technology Center, contact Maria Kendro, NTCA international projects manager, at 703-351-2011.

NTCA is a nonprofit association representing more than 540 locally owned and controlled telecommunications cooperatives and commercial companies throughout rural and small-town America. NTCA provides its members with legislative, regulatory, and industry representation; meetings, publications, and educational programs; and an array of employee benefit programs. Visit us at http://www.ntca.org.

National Telephone Cooperative Association 4121 Wilson Blvd., 10th Flr.,
Arlington, VA 22203 Phone: 703 351-2000
Fax: 703-351-2800

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