Do you or a client need a little help figuring out how to manage technology? Perhaps your client wants to scan, archive, and/or share family photos electronically, or maybe use a smart phone to record stories for their children and grandchildren. Maybe they would like to video chat with friends or family but don’t know how to get started. There are several free services in our area to help folks of all ages navigate the many electronic devices that have become so important to us.
- The Hub/Senior Center in Grand Marais offers walk-in tech support on Mondays and Thursdays from 9am to 1pm with fully-vaccinated Boreal Media student interns. They can assist with just about any type of device – bring in what you have or use the computers available on site. This is a drop-in service – no appointment needed.
- Boreal Media offers free technical support to their email customers (folks with a “boreal.org” email address) by appointment only. These are the same interns who help with the Hub walk-in support, so they are able to help with a variety of devices. To schedule an appointment call Boreal media at 387-9471.
- The Lighthouse Center for Vital Living (formerly Lighthouse Center for Vision Loss) is an organization based in Duluth, but they serve Cook County as well. They can help clients find, acquire and use technologies that are right for them. This may include helping clients learn how to use a device, purchase or rent new equipment, or adapt the technology they currently use. To find out more, go to their website https://www.lcfvl.org/ or call 218-624-4828.
- Care Partners chore volunteers are sometimes able to help a client set up or offer basic instructions for tablets, cell phones and such.
Clients who are new to technology may appreciate your willingness to help arrange or travel with them to their tech support appointment – or a Care Partners chore volunteer may be able to assist. \
Are you aware of other helpful sources for technical support? Comment below!