AARP Grant Supports Digital Literacy Training for Older Adults in King County
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2026
SEATTLE, WA — AARP today announced that Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS) has received a $15,000 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant to expand digital literacy training for older adults in King County.
The project will provide hands-on computer training to more than 100 community members, primarily adults age 50 and older. Through multi-level classes, older adults, including immigrants, refugees and English language learners, will learn practical digital skills such as using computers, navigating the internet, managing email and completing online forms.
Participants will also receive support applying for jobs online, using telehealth services, managing benefits and staying in touch with family and community resources. Classes will include one-on-one support, access to computers and Wi-Fi, and guidance from instructors and volunteers.
“ACRS is deeply grateful to AARP for this generous investment in our community,” said Kendee Yamaguchi, CEO of ACRS. “For many older adults, especially immigrants and refugees, aging with dignity means having access to services that understand their language, culture, history, and lived experience. Digital literacy is also essential to staying connected, accessing care and navigating everyday life. This grant will help strengthen culturally responsive support for older adults and families so they can remain connected, cared for, and rooted in community.”
“Everyone deserves the chance to feel connected and confident in today’s digital world,” said Marguerite Ro, AARP Washington State Director. “ACRS’s project will help older immigrants and refugees build the skills they need to access resources, stay in touch with loved ones and take part in their communities with greater independence.”
The classes will reflect the languages and cultures of the communities ACRS serves. Participants will learn in small-group settings with step-by-step instruction and one-on-one coaching. The program will also connect participants with local libraries and training programs so they can continue building their skills beyond the classroom.
“Older adults are an essential part of the strength and wisdom of our communities,” Yamaguchi said. “When we invest in their well-being, we invest in families, neighborhoods, and future generations. We are honored to partner with AARP in this important work.”
Since 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has awarded more than $550,000 through 55 grants to nonprofit organizations and local government entities across Washington. Nationally, 2026 grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
View the full list of grantees and their projects at aarp.org/communitychallenge. Learn more about AARP’s work to support livable communities at aarp.org/livable.
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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.
About Asian Counseling and Referral Service
Asian Counseling and Referral Service is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization serving Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, immigrant, refugee, and other underserved communities across King County. ACRS provides whole-person, culturally responsive services including behavioral health and wellness, aging and adult services, caregiver support, food security, employment and training, youth and family programs, recovery services, civic engagement, and community-building programs. To learn more, visit acrs.org.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Christina Clem, AARP Washington, cclem@aarp.org, 206-604-9864
Liza Javier, Asian Counseling and Referral Service, lizaj@acrs.org, 206-695-7600
