Discover DeSoto: Bridging the Digital Gap in DeSoto County with Maribel Martinez

On this episode of Discover DeSoto, Alicia Exantus speaks with Maribel Martinez, a consultant with The Patterson Foundation’s Digital Access for All initiative. Although Maribel isn’t from DeSoto County, she has spent three years working closely with the community and has seen it shift from a rural area facing major challenges to one energized by new investments, partnerships, and growing momentum.The episode highlights DeSoto’s progress in expanding digital access. More residents now have broadband or are seeking devices and training, yet affordability and rural terrain remain major barriers. Maribel emphasizes that access isn’t meaningful unless families can actually afford to get online.This is why the Digital Access for All initiative focuses on three essentials: connectivity, devices, and digital skills. A key effort is the Digital Navigator Program, which trains community members to help residents secure affordable internet, obtain refurbished devices, and build confidence in using technology. A new cohort is now being developed specifically for DeSoto, inviting both organizations and individual residents to get involved. Spanish-speaking navigators are especially needed to support those who learn best from someone who shares their language and culture.The episode also spotlights Suncoast Digital Inclusion Month and a device-refurbishing partnership with STUG. We encourage you to stay connected through DeSotoCountyAhead.orgTimestamps 00:38 - Introduction to Maribel, consultant with The Patterson Foundation01:18 - Maribel shares what makes DeSoto special03:07 - Maribel clarifies and explains Access vs Adoption04:30 - Maribel talks about the importance of affordability4:45 -Maribel defines “lighting up a house.”5:50 - Maribel defines and explains to listeners more about the digital divide8:35 - Maribal goes into detail about the DA4A (Digital Access for All) initiative and the DN (Digital Navigator) programs13:41 - Maribel describes the 4 levels of participation in the Digital Navigator program20:22 - Maribel highlights the Suncoast Digital Inclusion Month as well as the Device Drive24:00 - Maribel wraps up this episode by sharing her Discover Desoto Gem, The Yellow DeliLinks to Learn More Digital Access for All initiativeDigital Navigator ProgramBlog: Discover Desoto: Bridging the Digital Gap in Desoto County With Maribel MartinezWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog!Join The Journey