Digital inclusion in France: a human and supportive journey with the Red Cross
At the National Forum of Associations and Foundations on November 13 in Paris, we had the pleasure of speaking with Anicée Gourgues, President of the Local Unit of the French Red Cross Paris XVIII, and René Bellet, a passionate volunteer and trainer involved in the Digital Inclusion program. Their enthusiasm and commitment shine brightly, perfectly illustrating the strength of collective action.
From the left: Giovanna Bottani (STF), Anicée Gourgues and René Bellet (Red Cross)
Since early 2024, the Local Unit has been delivering our “Introduction to Computer Basics (ICB)” course, which provides fundamental computer skills. Accessible to all, this course serves as a true springboard toward digital autonomy. It is primarily aimed at beginners, regardless of age. “Our groups are very dynamic and motivated,” explains Anicée. Seniors, newcomers, migrants, women of foreign origin, all share the same desire: to become independent, integrate, and gain autonomy through digital skills. Some even regularly return to the digital support sessions organized after the courses, proving that the support goes well beyond the initial training.
René, a computer scientist and developer, has been volunteering with this local unit for 7 years. “I started by teaching French classes, then I wanted to use my IT skills to help others.” Today, with a team of 7 to 8 committed trainers, he leads several sessions of the ICB course, divided into 11 modules over 3 months, for groups of up to 7 students.
The Local Unit Paris XVIII has 250 active volunteers engaged in social activities (French and digital inclusion courses, outreach, and solidarity shop) as well as emergency response and relief efforts. Volunteering here is as diverse as it is flexible, with young people today attracted to concrete and occasional projects.
Since early 2024, the French Red Cross Paris XVIII has been actively and successfully deploying the ICB course thanks to the educational materials and laptops provided by us, with the support of STMicroelectronics French sites.
This human and supportive success story is a source of inspiration. Among the highlights, Anicée recalls with emotion the day when A., a student, managed to use the mouse to navigate independently on his computer. “The happiness on his face was the reward for his perseverance.” J., meanwhile, defied her children’s expectations by brilliantly passing the final quiz after 20 hours of training. “Her pride in gaining autonomy is a great victory for all of us.”
The plans for tomorrow are ambitious. The enthusiasm of the local unit is unmistakable as they aim to develop the partnership: advanced ICB courses, training to assist with administrative procedures, tablet workshops for seniors, educational videos to follow at home after the program…
“This is a great success, a digital inclusion initiative that truly works and inspires other local units,” concludes Anicée. “And it is thanks to you, ST Foundation, thanks to your support, that we can continue moving forward.”
About the French Red Cross Paris XVIII Local Unit
The French Red Cross Paris XVIII Local Unit, established on December 10, 1914, has been serving the 18th arrondissement of Paris for over a century. As an auxiliary to public authorities in its humanitarian missions, it continuously fights to alleviate suffering within its community.