About Us

Juntos en Línea RGV is a community-engaged initiative dedicated to bridging the digital divide among Hispanic/Latino older adults in the U.S.-Mexico border region. Guided by the Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) framework, our project unites researchers, bilingual students from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), and local partners—including Senior Planet and Sivil Ribbon—to co-create inclusive digital literacy solutions.

Our Mission

To empower older adults with practical digital skills (e.g., health app navigation, video calling, online resource access) through intergenerational learning, while fostering cultural responsiveness and community resilience. By addressing barriers to digital access, we aim to enhance health equity, social connection, and quality of life for underserved populations.

Our Approach

1. Community-Driven Research：We map local digital and health resources using Social Pinpoint’s tools and conduct anonymous surveys to identify real-time needs.

2. Bilingual Education：UTRGV social work students design and teach courses tailored to cultural contexts, combining technology training with real-world scenarios (e.g., scheduling medical appointments via apps).

3. Sustainable Collaboration：We partner with organizations familiar with the region’s unique challenges to ensure our solutions are scalable and rooted in local expertise.

Our Team

- Dr. Minzhi Ye (Sociology & Social Work)：Leads research design and data analysis, integrating gerontology and digital equity frameworks.

- Dr. Rebecca Cole (Social Work): Expert on Digital Safe Influence, Mental Health Clinician, and Advocate, co-lead research design and data analysis.

- Dr. Martinez (Social Work)：Manages field operations, student volunteer training, and community engagement, leveraging bilingual proficiency and local ties.

- Bilingual Student Volunteers：Serve as digital mentors, bridging generational gaps through hands-on teaching and cultural insight.

Why We Do It

In an era where digital access is essential for healthcare, social connection, and daily life, older adults in underserved communities face disproportionate barriers. Juntos en Línea RGV envisions a future where technology empowers rather than excludes—one where every individual, regardless of age or background, can thrive in the digital world.