A volunteer assists a participant during a Foothills Computer Literacy Program class at the Alcouffe Community Center. More than 55 learners are participating in the program, which provides hands-on technology instruction and Chromebooks to foothill residents. Photo courtesy of Margaret Fowler

YUBA COUNTY, CA (MPG) - More than 55 foothill residents are learning how to navigate computers, safely use the internet and stay connected online through a new computer literacy program aimed at expanding digital access in rural Yuba County.

The Foothills Computer Literacy Program, offered through the Yuba Foothills Agriculture Communities Association, or YFACA, has provided participating residents with Chromebooks and a series of hands-on classes covering basic computer skills.

The program was made possible through an AARP Community Challenge Grant, with support from Digitunity and AT&T, as well as Yuba County Health and Human Services. Margaret Fowler, founder and director of Seniors on the Go Yuba Foothills, said participants have been learning practical skills ranging from navigating their computers and using email to accessing online resources, video calling and recognizing potential scams.

Participants work on Chromebooks during a Foothills Computer Literacy Program class at the Alcouffe Community Center. The YFACA program offers training in computer basics, internet safety, email and other everyday technology skills. Photo courtesy of Margaret Fowler

The program has also worked to address some of the challenges that can make accessing technology training difficult in rural communities. Transportation assistance has been provided for residents who may otherwise have difficulty attending, while instructors and volunteers have offered individualized help for participants with varying levels of computer experience. Technology education has also been incorporated into Seniors on the Go monthly luncheons at the Alcouffe Community Center, allowing organizers to reach residents beyond those enrolled in the computer classes.

The current series is moving into its final portion with two cellphone classes that will be open to the public. An Android phone class will be held Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 3 p.m., followed by an iPhone class Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 3 p.m. Both will be held at the Alcouffe Community Center. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own phones so instructors can provide hands-on assistance with the devices they use every day.

Organizers are already preparing to expand the program. YFACA recently received an additional grant providing 50 more Chromebooks, which will allow computer literacy efforts to continue beyond the initial group of participants. The next phase is expected to include YFACA's Foothill Education Hub in addition to Seniors on the Go, expanding opportunities for foothill residents to access both technology and training.

Fowler said the broader goal is not simply to teach residents how to operate a computer or phone, but to help them become more comfortable using technology to communicate with family, access services and information, participate in telehealth and remain connected to their community. For rural residents who might otherwise have to travel outside the foothills for similar resources, the growing program is bringing the equipment, instruction and support directly to them.