Throughout the 18-state Kinetic footprint, both in person and online, Kinetic by Windstream is committed to digital inclusion and literacy for our customers and the communities we serve. We are investing in our network to bring individual and community level access to robust broadband connections, internet-enabled devices that meet customers’ needs and building the skills to explore, create and collaborate in the digital world.
Education
- Kinetic Scholars – Kinetic awarded scholarships for continuing education, including STEM, in communities across our footprint. In 2022, the company awarded approximately $20,000 to students in six states.
- Kinetic has worked with local partners to teach Digital Literacy classes and Broadband 101 Senior center classes in Kentucky.
- Kinetic has funded technology grants for educational organizations in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
- Kinetic provides support resources directly to customers through welcome emails and face-to-face interactions with retail employees and technicians who install their service. The company also provides an online customer portal and YouTube videos to troubleshoot common issues that arise.
Business and Workforce Development
- The Black Business Support Fund awards small business owners with monetary grants, free internet service and business consultations. Since 2020, the program has awarded $300,000 in grants to businesses across the footprint.
- Kinetic hosted seminars for Chamber of Commerce Economic Development in Kentucky.
- Kinetic participated in Georgia Municipal Association rural broadband summit panel.
- Kinetic participates in Job Fair & Career Day at high schools and technical colleges, including on-site technician vehicles & fiber splicing equipment to demonstrate the technology. The company also uses videos to educate potential employees about job opportunities with the company and in the industry, along with skills necessary to be successful.
Community Participation
- Computer training/internet accessibility community partnerships in Ohio.
- Town Hall meetings to share the coming fiber investment through Georgia State Fiscal Recovery Funds
- Community Grants for various organizations in communities we serve (United Way, humane societies, domestic violence shelters, economic development and veteran support groups) to ensure technological resources are up to date.
- Connected device giveaways at events across the footprint.
Looking Ahead
We’re not stopping. In the weeks and months to come, we will continue to engage with customers in the communities we serve to let them know when fiber internet is coming their way, how to make the most of their high-speed service and provide educational and career opportunities to boost economic development.