Ali Milligan’s connection to Mission Texarkana is both personal and transformative impacting not only her but also the individuals she serves.

As a Broadband Technical Assistance Provider (BTAP) with Communities Unlimited (CU), Ali works with some of the most vulnerable people in Texarkana, Texas: the homeless population. Her mission is simple but crucial — improving digital literacy to help people access essential resources and regain control of their lives.

Ali’s involvement with Mission Texarkana began long before her work with CU. “My mom, Terrie, works for Mission Texarkana, so it’s a place I’ve grown up in over the last six years,” she said.

During high school and college, Ali volunteered at the mission, gaining firsthand insight into the struggles clients faced, including barriers to basic needs and digital resources. When she began her internship with the American Connection Corps & AmeriCorps Programs, hosted by CU as part of its broadband initiative to support rural communities, she knew Mission Texarkana was the ideal place to apply her skills. After completing her internship, she parlayed the experience into a full-time role with CU as a BTAP.

CU’s role as a host site for the American Connection Corps & AmeriCorps Programs allows fellows like Ali to work in underserved communities, focusing on expanding broadband access and digital literacy. Through this partnership, Ali has developed a curriculum for a new homeless shelter in Texarkana, teaching basic computer skills and resume-building — both critical for accessing job opportunities, housing, and services.

American Connection Corps logo
AmeriCorps Logo

Many of her students have never used a computer, so Ali starts with the basics: how to use a mouse, type, and navigate online.

“Some didn’t know how to uppercase and lowercase letters,” she noted.

For Ali, this work goes beyond teaching digital literacy. It’s about giving people the autonomy to access resources independently. Whether applying for a job, creating a resume, or signing up for benefits, these skills open doors for her students.

One of Ali’s impactful projects has been helping students create email accounts, essential for job and housing applications. She patiently guides them through learning to type, use the internet, and navigate computers — skills vital in today’s digital world.

Beyond digital literacy, Ali is also involved in Mission Texarkana’s Humble Troll Coffee initiative, a workforce development program offering job training for the homeless. Participants learn to bag coffee, sell it at farmers markets, and interact with customers, gaining confidence and marketable skills that can lead to employment.

Mission Texarkana serves over 200 people daily, providing meals, hygiene products, clothing, and assistance with essential documents. Ali’s mother, Terrie, works as the cook, ensuring everyone receives a hot meal.

Ali’s work with Mission Texarkana, supported by CU and the American Connection Corps & AmeriCorps, underscores the importance of community and giving people the tools they need to rebuild their lives. Through her efforts, she is helping Texarkana’s homeless population gain the skills, confidence, and independence to create a better digital future.

"This work is so rewarding because I’ve watched people come in, get jobs, and get off the streets. They come back excited to tell us they have a job or a house. One guy was thrilled because he got his first couch. Seeing their success stories is the most rewarding part, but we also learn from those who don’t succeed, which is why digital literacy is so important for their independence."

— Ali Milligan, Broadband Technical Assistance Provider with Communities Unlimited

Nuestra promesa

Asociarse con personas que quieren salir de la pobreza persistente y conectarlas con soluciones para lograr una prosperidad sostenible.

Nuestro objetivo

El talento está repartido por igual en Estados Unidos, pero las oportunidades no. El acceso a las oportunidades no debe depender de dónde vivas, de cuánto tengas en el banco o de cómo seas.

Nuestro enfoque

A través de la conexión humana y el ingenio combinados con tecnología y conocimientos de vanguardia, Communities Unlimited conecta a las personas con soluciones que sustentan empresas sanas, comunidades sanas y vidas sanas.

Mantengámonos en contacto

Suscripción al boletín de noticias

Communities Unlimited, Inc.
3 East Colt Square Drive
Fayetteville, AR 72703

P (479) 443-2700
F (479) 443-5036

Esta institución es un empleador, proveedor y prestamista EOE para discapacitados/veteranos.
Las personas con problemas de habla o audición pueden llamar gratis al 1-800-877-0996 para obtener servicio en inglés y español

Privacy Preference Center