Digital TV Conversion

About the Program

Category: Personnel Management, Employment and Training (Best in Category)

Year: 2010

In 2008, Fairfax County assessed how best to serve its residents in light of the nationwide digital television transition that would occur in 2009. Vulnerable populations were identified: older adults; individuals with disabilities; persons homebound or in nursing homes; and those with limited English proficiency. An inter-agency team was assembled to identify methods to render assistance cost-effectively and developed a three-phase approach. The first phase was to prepare and disseminate DTV information to fill the gaps in public information from federal agencies. The County was subsequently singled out by the federal government as having provided an outstanding educational resource for the public. In a second phase, inter-agency coordination produced additional results: publication of user-friendly articles targeted to senior citizens; distribution of DTV materials in English and Spanish for posting in libraries and County health clinics; displays at public events; and demonstrations at senior centers. The final phase was to provide direct assistance whenever possible. The County recruited and trained volunteers who made in-home visits to adults over age 60 and adults with disabilities who requested help from the County. A “DTV Help Line” for telephone advice and assistance was also established.