ABOUT US
ABOUT SDM FOUNDATION
Technology Should Be for Everyone
Technology has become part of nearly every aspect of modern life. Whether applying for a job, accessing healthcare, staying connected with family, managing finances, or simply communicating with friends, digital skills are no longer optional, they are essential. At SDM Foundation, we believe that no one should be left behind simply because technology continues to evolve.
Our mission is to provide free, accessible technology education that gives people the confidence to participate fully in today’s digital world.
OUR MISSION
To help people learn to use technology, so they can live more connected and independent lives.
The SDM Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Private Operating Foundation. We focus on teaching how to use technology, such as computers and the Internet. We help people use email, the web, digital photography, spreadsheets, video chatting, and all of the other ways that people interact, learn, and participate in their community, using phones, tablets, and computers. We also help small businesses and nonprofits learn to develop and maintain their websites, social media, and other technology.
We do all of this by offering FREE individual and small group lessons. Our staff is well trained, extremely patient, and they work at your pace. Any topic, any time: appointments available in person or remotely.
WHY WE EXIST
Technology changes rapidly. New smartphones, computers, apps, websites, online services, passwords, artificial intelligence, scams, and security threats appear every year.
Many people feel overwhelmed trying to keep up. For older adults, families, students, and individuals with limited technology experience, this means that even simple tasks can become frustrating barriers. Something as basic as sending an email, creating a password, recognizing an online scam, or updating a phone can suddenly feel impossible without help.
SDM Foundation exists to remove those barriers. We believe digital literacy should be available to everyone, regardless of age, income, or technical background.
Education for Every Stage of Life
Technology affects everyone differently. Therefore, our educational programs are designed to meet learners where they are.
Whether someone is learning how to use a smartphone for the first time, improving computer skills for work, exploring digital creativity, or understanding artificial intelligence, we strive to provide clear, welcoming instruction that removes fear and builds independence.
OUR VISION
We envision a future where digital literacy is considered a basic life skill.
One where no one feels excluded because technology has moved too quickly. Where education empowers people to participate fully in an increasingly connected world. Every lesson taught, every article published, every question answered, and every person helped brings us one step closer to that vision.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
Our Benefactor: Stuart D. McIntosh
SDM Foundation was created by Stuart D McIntosh in 2015 by a bequest upon his death at the age of 93. Because of this, we are fortunate to be able to provide professional help to people without any cost to them.
Mr. McIntosh was born in 1921 and raised in Glasgow, Scotland. He attended the University of Glasgow and received degrees in Chemistry and Library Science.
Stuart wanted to be able to help people use technology to make their lives richer. He realized that the advantages of using technology were enormous and that it was very difficult for people not already in the know to gain access. Even the specialized technical language is a barrier.
From his early professional days, Stuart believed that people should be in charge of their own data. He hoped that assistance focused on what they wanted to do, rather than what the computer was able to do, would benefit everyone. Here at SDM we try to give effect to Stuart’s ideas.
Learn more about Stuart
SDM blog post – May 2021
ArchiveSpace at MIT (A list of Stuart’s documents in the archive)
An Email from a Friend of Stuart’s Remembering Him – December 2024
SDM in the News
5 Melrose Nonprofits to Support this Holiday Season – Melrose Patch. November 2024
Thank you to Benjamin Pierce of the Patch Staff for thinking so highly of us. We are thankful of your recognition.
SDM Foundation: Where to turn for free technology help – Written by Jack Drees for the Neighborhood View – Malden from your point of view. August 2024
SDM Foundation Celebrates 8 Years of Technology Education on Main Street – The Melrose Messenger Keeping Melrosians Informed Since 2024 – July 2024