Donna Dusell: Still time for senior tech support

Jan 15, 2025

It has been my pleasure over the past year to coordinate Greenfield Community College’s Cyber Seniors program, providing one-on-one support and technology workshops for senior citizens at sites throughout Franklin County. It has been gratifying to hear from participants regarding how this program has addressed a wide range of needs, from learning basic technology skills to navigating challenging smartphone and computer issues.

I also appreciate the city of Greenfield and the Greenfield Senior Center for their partnership with this project. Their work to obtain funding through MA Elder Affairs, and willingness to serve folks within the wider GCC service area, has allowed us to expand support throughout Franklin County from New Salem to Rowe.

The grant was scheduled to end as of Dec. 31, 2024, but we have been allowed to use unspent funds to extend services through February and are currently able to offer 10 hours per week of individualized support. Because we are in the process of winding down, we have shifted most services to the GCC campus. After February, we will be able to offer very limited support through GCC’s Community Engagement works study program, and we are hopeful that we will be able to once again fund a more robust program later in the year.

If you are a senior citizen who would needs tech help, I encourage you to visit engage.gcc.mass.edu/seniors/cyber-seniors/ or call 413-325-3195 to set up an appointment.

Donna Dusell

Greenfield