Ecosystem
Building connections for digital inclusion in Cook County
Digital equity ecosystems are interactions between individuals, populations, communities, and their larger social and technical environments that shape digital inclusion outcomes and work in local communities. An ecosystem approach relies on support from multiple organizations and informal groups to welcome new users into digital adoption and share resources, social norms, practices, and support related to using these technologies.
Community of Digital Equity (CODE)
The Community of Digital Equity (CODE) is an evolution of President Toni Preckwinkle’s original Council on Digital Equity—reflecting Cook County’s growing digital equity ecosystem and the need for more inclusive collaboration.
Originally launched as an advisory council, CODE brought together local leaders and national advisors to guide County action on digital inequities. From mid-April through late July 2023, a representative Guiding Team helped shape community engagement strategies and led in-depth conversations across Cook County.
As the digital equity landscape has become more complex and interconnected, CODE has grown beyond a traditional council model. Today, CODE operates as a Community of Digital Equity. It is a regional gathering space where practitioners, institutions, advocates, funders, and residents can connect, learn, and collaborate.
Why the Shift from Council to Community?
Intersectional Engagement
The community model strengthens the County’s ability to engage across distinct and deeply connected issue areas such as broadband access, digital skills, device availability, education, workforce development, and civic participation.
Accessibility
CODE creates a low-barrier entry point for new partners, collaborators, and residents who want to learn about or contribute to digital equity efforts.
Transparency & Agility
An open community structure supports shared learning, faster feedback, and adaptability as programs, policies, and technologies continue to evolve.
Regional Leadership
CODE firmly positions Cook County as a connector and convener by bringing together stakeholders across sectors to advance a more digitally inclusive region.
Digital Equity Action Committee (DEAC)
The Digital Equity Action Committee (DEAC) is a collaborative working group within Cook County’s digital equity ecosystem. DEAC brings together passionate leaders from across the region who are committed to advancing the goals of the County’s Digital Equity Action Plan. Grounded in the core principles of Access, Confidence, Safety, and Infrastructure, members of the DEAC are putting ideas into motion and driving meaningful change at the community level.
To celebrate their work, Cook County has launched the “Meet the DEAC” video series, highlighting the voices and stories of these digital equity champions.
Our Partners
Our partners are local members and senior advisors from around the U.S. who provide expertise and guidance as Cook County takes action to address digital inequities.
Metro Chicago 211
Getting connected just got easier. Soon, Cook County residents will be able to call 211 Metro Chicago not only for housing, food, and health resources, but also for technology support and digital skills assistance. Whether you need help finding affordable internet, learning how to use a device, or building confidence online, trained specialists will connect you to trusted local programs and resources. Visit Metro Chicago 211 today.