Kenneth Sherin- Broadband Access and Education Coordinator
Broadband Resources for Cooperative Extension
May 19, 2021
Resources For Promoting the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program
Starting on May 12, 2021, eligible households will be able to access the FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit funds to offset the cost of Broadband Service to their home and could receive money for a device. The North Carolina Broadband Office has information with details about the EEB program eligibility and the benefits.
The Broadband issue is multifaceted and complex. Therefore, finding an on-ramp for working on broadband through your Extension subject area is possible. The resources below will help you explore subject area research and information, and find ways to take action.
Map Your Broadband Speed and Get Others to do the Same
Over the recent months, the residents of North Carolina have become kingly aware of their internet speed and reliability. There is an opportunity to provide information about your internet connectivity or lack thereof. The North Carolina Broadband Office has developed a Survey (and promotional materials) which you can take to provide them with internet speed information at your location. There is even a way to take the survey to indicate you do not have internet access at your residence. The FCC is currently redoing broadband coverage maps. It is important for North Carolina residents to take the survey so there is better data when funding opportunities become available. Please participate in the survey so our data shows the need for funding here in North Carolina. Here is the link to the survey
The Foundation for Rural Service has provided a white paper on the importance of connectivity in rural America. It is a go-to resource to understand the issues shaping broadband access, adoption, and utilization. If you only have time to read one resource, pick this FRS White Paper.
Getting to Know the Broadband Access and Education Coordinator
Kenny Sherin started his role of Broadband Access and Education Coordinator on March 1, 2021. This role is in addition to his current duties as the County Extension Director in Randolph County that he began on September 2, 2019. Kenny grew up on a farm in Union County, NC, where his family grew soybeans and raised beef cattle.
Share your Broadband Story and Resources with Kenny using this Google Form
NC State University and N.C. A&T State University work in tandem, along with federal, state and local governments, to form a strategic partnership called N.C. Cooperative Extension.
