Program Page: Douglass-Wells Digital Works
A Mission-Aligned Tech Enterprise of the African American Work Society
Named after Frederick Douglass and Ida B. Wells—two towering symbols of liberation and truth—Douglass-Wells Digital Works is the tech training and hiring division of the African American Work Society. More than just an initiative, it is an ecosystem of digital freedom and opportunity, created to ensure that African Americans can thrive in the modern economy through ownership, creativity, and enterprise.
This program was established under the nonprofit’s 501(c)(3) structure to provide access, skills, and employment in technology and digital industries, with all revenues reinvested into community programming and mission impact.
“Self-determination is non-negotiable—and in tech, it begins with ownership.”
What We Offer
Tech Training Cohorts Accessible, community-rooted education in:
- Web Development (Front-End & Full-Stack)
- UX/UI Design
- Cybersecurity Basics
- Data & AI Literacy
- Freelance Startup Tools
Job Placement & Employment Pathways
- Freelance contracts with mission-aligned clients
- NGO-based agency work and site development
- Staff support for co-op and enterprise partners
- Internal hiring and ongoing mentorship
Enterprise Impact
- Designing and maintaining AAWS digital platforms
- Building tools for advocacy and education
- Staffing tech infrastructure for community-owned businesses
- Creating data systems to amplify our global voice
How to Get Involved
- [Apply to Join a Training Cohort]
- [Sponsor a Trainee or Digital Apprenticeship]
- [Hire Our Talent for Mission-Aligned Projects]
Program Location & Contact
Douglass-Wells Digital Works is housed within the headquarters of the African American Work Society in Peoria, Illinois. We welcome visitors, collaborators, and community stakeholders who share our vision for a digitally sovereign future.
Visit Our Partner Organization → www.africanamericanworks.us