Free Digital Literacy Classes to Help Older Adults Navigate Technology, Access Essential Online Services
[PORT ORFORD, OR]: Beacon Broadband, a subsidiary of Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative (CCEC), is proud to announce the expansion of its Connected Senior program to Port Orford, bringing technology education provided at no cost to older adults in one of the Oregon coast's most rural coastal communities.
The Connected Senior program provides seniors with hands-on computer and internet skills training, empowering them to connect with loved ones, access telehealth services, and safely navigate the digital world. The program has
already made a meaningful impact on communities on the south coast, and the Port Orford expansion marks another step in Beacon's commitment to closing the digital divide in the region.
"The Connected Senior program isn't just about teaching people how to use a computer, it's about restoring independence and connection," said Keith Buchhalter, Marketing & Member Services Manager at CCEC. "When we see seniors like the ones in our Brookings and Gold Beach cohorts using a computer for the first time, we know this work matters. Bringing that same opportunity to Port Orford is something we are incredibly proud of."
The program is made possible through a collaborative partnership between Beacon Broadband, Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative, and Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC). Classes will be hosted at the Port Orford Library and are designed to meet seniors where they are, no prior experience required. "Port Orford deserves the same opportunities as residents in larger cities," said Bill Gerski, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Beacon Broadband. "As we continue expanding fiber broadband infrastructure up the coast, the Connected Senior Program supports our mission to not only connect homes, but to connect people to the resources, relationships, and possibilities that reliable internet makes possible."
Rusty Raymond, Director of Technology for the Port Orford Langlois School district and the program’s instructor echoes that sentiment. "What I am most excited about is seeing the seniors understand the computer they are using with
the help of our younger students. I’m glad that Connected Seniors has come to Port Orford because this program isn’t just about teaching seniors to use technology but it’s also to help our young ones develop a sense of pride in our community and the joy of giving back!
Research consistently shows that digital literacy significantly improves quality of life for older adults, with access to telehealth, social connection, and online resources reducing social isolation and increasing access to critical services. Classes cover foundational computer skills, internet safety, email, video calling, and navigating online services, all at a comfortable, supportive pace.
Program Launch: Friday, April 3 | 10–11 AM Port Orford Library | 1421 Oregon St., Port Orford
Class Schedule: April 3, 10, and 17 | May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29
All classes are offered at no cost to participants. No prior experience is needed, and everyone is welcome.
How to Register: Contact Southwestern Oregon Community College Curry Campus (SWOCC) to sign up for the Connected Seniors Program: (541) 813-1667 CurryFirstStop@socc.edu
For more information about Beacon Broadband's Connected Senior program call (541) 254-9265.