“It’s frustrating when you don’t know how to use these tools. One feels a little bit dumb—but when you have great people supporting you, it becomes much easier.”
-- Carol Quintero
Carol's Story
How Digital Skills and AI Helped Carol Care for Her Family—and Herself
Carol Quintero, a lifelong Miami resident and mother of two, built her career in beauty consulting and retail management—fields where her warmth and face-to-face connection were her greatest assets. For over 20 years, computers were optional in her world. But when Carol put her career on pause to care for her ailing mother, she found herself facing a new set of challenges—ones that required digital skills she never thought she’d need.
That’s when Carol discovered the AT&T Connected Learning Center (CLC) at the Overtown Youth Center (OYC) and an AI course that would change her life. “I needed a GPS just to turn on the computer,” Carol laughs. “It’s frustrating when you don’t know how to use these tools. One feels a little bit dumb—but when you have great people supporting you, it becomes much easier.”
With the encouragement of OYC staff and resources provided through AT&T, Carol learned to harness AI tools not just for herself, but for her entire family. She used her new skills to organize her mother’s complex care schedule, coordinate with her siblings, and bring structure and relief to a stressful situation.
The impact didn’t stop at home. Carol’s newfound confidence helped her land a new job in customer service after two years away from the workforce. Now, she uses computers every day and embraces new challenges with excitement. “Six months ago, I would have said ‘no way’ to a computer job. Now, I say, ‘Why not?’”
Carol’s journey has inspired her family too—her sister is now interested in digital courses, and Carol volunteers at OYC, giving back to the center that helped her transform.
Carol’s story is proof that digital and AI literacy aren’t just for young people—they’re for anyone with the courage to take the first step. Programs like the Connected Learning Center at OYC, powered by AT&T, are opening doors to new skills, new jobs, and new confidence for people across the country.
“OYC and the Connected Learning Center gave me the tools and support I needed. They didn’t just teach me computers—they changed my life.”
Carol’s story is just one example of how AT&T is connecting people to greater possibilities through our $5 billion commitment to connect 25 million people by 2030. Find out more about our commitment here.
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Gia Duarte
Gia Duarte’s journey with AT&T’s Connected Learning Centers (CLC) at the Salvadoran American Leadership and Educational Fund (SALEF) in Los Angeles is a powerful example of how access to technology makes a real difference. At home, Gia struggled with limited and unreliable technology, which made it hard for her to research colleges and complete applications. Then she discovered the CLC—a reliable space where she could focus, get the resources she needed, and plan confidently for her future.
Meet James, a senior from St. Louis and member of the Urban League. Recently, he joined a series of courses powered by AT&T’s digital literacy resources. In his 70s and preparing to re-enter the workforce, James is building his confidence and skills in technology, email, internet use, and more- key tools for success in today’s job market.
April, a Dallas native and mom of two, was experiencing job loss and uncertain housing. Then, her path to earning a degree took a turn for the better thanks to AT&T and the United Way’s Digital Bridges program. Through the program, April received a laptop, which helped her stay connected, manage her online classes, and keep working toward her goals without missing a beat.
Ethan, a passionate student and musician from South Texas, draws inspiration from his grandmother’s bolero singing and his Latin American roots. Active in bilingual and church choirs, he uses music to celebrate and share his culture. Growing up with limited technology—often sharing a laptop with his mom or relying on school computers—Ethan faced challenges applying to college and searching for scholarships, frequently using his smartphone for these tasks.
