Resource Guide
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The resources below, organized by the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, focus on the digital needs of Berkshire County residents from youth to older adults. In addition to those listed, all Berkshire County libraries offer free internet access, and some lend computer devices and hotspots to card holders to use on-site or at home. Similarly, senior centers may run occasional computer classes or bring in volunteers for individual tech support. Check with your local library or senior center for details. Resources in languages other than English are noted in red.
This resource guide is funded by the Massachusetts Broadband Institute at the MassTech Collaborative under the Municipal Digital Equity Planning Program. Funding was provided by Massachusetts ARPA State Fiscal Recovery Funds.
Assistive Technologies include computers, equipment, products, and services that help people with physical limitations more easily access and use online resources.
A free audio magazine for adults with impaired vision or other disability. Four times a year, listeners receive 12 hours of great magazine writing. A talking book player is also provided free of charge. Recipients enjoy the issue for several weeks, then return it in a postage-free mailer. CML is also available as a download. CML is a nonprofit and services are free.
Connects people with disabilities with the technology they need to live more independently. Our regional provider can be found at this link. For more information call 617-204-3851.
Offers free durable medical equipment, an assistive technology library, and a radio reading service through Berkshire Talking Chronicle over WRRS (104.3) to support children and adults with disabilities. They also offer Computer Fundamentals webinars to teach beginning and advanced computer knowledge and skills. UCP offers services to non-English speakers.
Cybersecurity involves putting in place practices, software, and hardware to protect one’s personal information from outside threats and attacks that could put their identities, finances, and safety at risk and result in negative consequences.
Offers online safety resources from a Cyber Tip Line to information for everyone from kids to older adults. Email Contact.BerkshireDA@mass.gov or call 413-443-5951.
Provides tips and insight into viruses, spyware, malware, and threats to computer systems, as well as phishing, hacking, and spam that can threaten personal identity and information. They can be reached by phone at (617) 963-2223. Select language at top of page to read the website in the language of choice.
Offers tips to ensure people know what to look for and how to avoid cybercrimes. Select language at top of page to read the website in the language of choice.
Educates older adults about cybersecurity and inspires them to pursue a healthy digital lifestyle in an increasingly technology-dependent world. Curriculum was selected as one of the 25 national winners of the 2022 Prudential.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a private connection between a computer or phone and a remote server with the goal of masking a person’s online activity so they cannot be monitored by others. Experts suggest using a VPN both at home and when using the internet in a public place. Below is a VPN recommended by the magazine Consumer Reports:
TunnelBear has an easy-to-use free version and works on Mac, PC, and Apple and Android cellphones. The free version covers 500MB of data a month. An unlimited plan starts at $6 a month: https://www.tunnelbear.com/
Information about how to access discounted (often slower) internet service for people enrolled in a program such as SNAP, WIC, SSI, or veteran’s benefits. For questions about qualifying, email digital@berkshireplanning.org.
Lifeline phone service provides a small amount of data (usually 4-5 GB per month) through cellular service for free for people who are income-eligible. Cellphones can be used to connect to the internet if paired with a hotspot or if using the internet via a free, open Wi-Fi network like a café or airport. For detailed information about Lifeline, see the last pages of this guide.
Information about free and low-cost websites that help people build their digital skills and confidence. Some are aimed at specific audiences such as older adults.
Provides free technology support and training for older adults. People can book a one-on-one tech call, watch instructional webinars, check out their cybersecurity center, visit their discovery hub, or connect with helpers in the community. For more information, call 888-217-3057. Select language at top of page to read in your language of choice.
The Digital Skills Library is an open website of free learning resources designed to help all adult learners develop the digital skills needed to achieve their personal, civic, educational, and career goals. Available in multiple languages including Spanish, Arabic, Hungarian, and French. Scroll down to Explore All Resources to find language options.
An online hub for digital literacy support and training from the Public Library Association. Includes self-directed tutorials for users to increase their digital literacy. Modules are video-based with narration and written in plain language at an elementary to middle-school level for English and Spanish speakers.
Free program to learn the essential skills to live and work in the 21st century from MS Office and email to reading, math, and social media. The site offers more than 300 topics, including 6,000+ lessons, 2,000+ videos, and 50+ interactive exercises and games. Select language at top of page to read the website in Spanish or Portuguese.
Free online, self-paced digital skills classes focused on the Google Suite such as the Google workspace, gaining job-ready skills, and 100+ free digital.
Provides referrals to over 300 adult education programs that offer one-on-one tutoring, small group, or classroom instruction to adult learners.
A free, open-source version of Microsoft Office that can be installed on computers rather than paying for an MS license. Downloads available in multiple languages.
A website that enables veterans and their families to search for all the benefits they are entitled to in an easy one-stop fashion. Select language at top of page to read the website in the language of choice.
Take a free digital skills assessment and online classes by entering BRPC’s PIN: Z3E9. To arrange a group class leading to certificates, email digital@berkshireplanning.org. Select language at bottom of page to read the site in the language of choice. Northstar is also available at MCLA, William Stickney Adult Learning Center, 2nd Street Second Chances, and Roots, Dreams, and Mustard Seeds.
Free online classes including digital skills aimed at older adults through the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). Older adults can speak to a technology trainer from 9:00 am – 8:00 pm Monday to Friday for free at 888-713-3495. Click on the Main Menu to find classes in Spanish and Mandarin.
Free tutorials that teach users how to use the most popular and trusted websites and internet apps with over 60 courses packed with videos and articles tailored to those with limited computer skills. The site is written in easily understood, non-technical language.
Free virtual and in-person tech classes empowering people with essential skills via a range of courses whether the person is starting out or looking to master advanced software. People can dive into topics from basic computer skills to software use. Students who complete six classes are eligible for a free device. Call (413) 340-1105 or email info@techhubmass.net. Select language at top of page to read the website in English or Spanish. Some training materials have been translated into Spanish. If a minimum of 5 people are interested in a Spanish-language class, they may be able to arrange one.
Information about resources teachers, parents, and youth advocates can use to help young people become safe and skilled digital citizens.
A nonprofit that believes everyone—especially those likely to be disproportionately impacted by artificial intelligence have access to knowledge and skills to thrive as workers, creators, consumers, and citizens. Online classes are both self-guided and teacher-led.
Expands access to computer science in schools with a focus on increasing participation by young women and students from underrepresented groups. Select language at bottom of page to read the website in the language of choice.
Supports parents around digital literacy and computer science with access to MassCORE and school report cards. Select drop-down at top of page to read the website in Spanish, Mandarin, Portuguese, Haitian Creole, or Vietnamese.
Works to close the gender gap in technology and change the image of what a programmer looks like and does.
Invites teachers, youth-focused organizations, and community nonprofits to offer workshops, mentorship, virtual sessions, and community events that cover digital skills from computer literacy to mobile devices and staying safe on the internet. Part of AT&T Connected Learning.
Nonprofit and for-profit companies that individuals and the organizations that serve them can use to apply for a free or low-cost computer. Computers4People.org requires that nonprofits “nominate” an individual. For those working with a nonprofit, reach out to an outreach worker to ask if they are willing to register to be a nominator.
Provides free computers to income-qualifying individuals. Free refurbished laptops to collegebound students in financial need; and PC Teen Building Classes and Digital Skills Classes for all ages. Computers (desktop, laptop, tablet) come loaded with the Google Chrome Suite. Users can download and install for free Apache Open Office @ https://www.openoffice.org/download/. To start the process of requesting a device, contact BRPC @ digital@berkshireplanning.org or call (413) 442-1521 ext. 16.
Connects people with low-cost computers and internet services and recycles and refurbishes computers. Select language at top of page to read the website in the language of choice.
Located in Adams, MA, this for-profit business offers discounts on computer trade-ins and remote support for computer viruses and other software issues.
Websites where people can find useful health, mental health, housing, and-related resources that improve the quality of their lives.
413Cares offers a way for people to search for free and reduced-cost services in their community. 413Cares also connects people to organizations offering the needed services. Organizations can refer clients to other services and track their success.
People may log into or set up DTA Connect to get SNAP /Transitional Assistance benefits or verification.
Mass211 is a program of local United Way offices that offers links to key resources such as food pantries, utility assistance, domestic violence, mental health, runaway assistance, transportation, and youth homelessness.
Resources that teach people advanced skills that make them more employable in a digital economy. Some resources focus on unique audiences such as women, veterans, and people of color.
Seeks to increase women and non-binary students graduating with degrees in computer science and tech. They offer a one-year virtual and in-person artificial intelligence program and a shorter Sprintership with tech companies. Students can apply to join either program. College students can register in December 2024.
Provides future technicians with knowledge and skills while opening the door for a career with organizations such as telecom. and internet providers and contractors.
Highlights jobs and internships in the Commonwealth and remote positions with Massachusetts companies focused on cybersecurity and technology jobs.
Live and on-demand webinars from MassHire - Upgrade marketability with their Work Skills Learning Program. People can choose from courses that include accounting, communication, Microsoft and Google Suite. No more waiting for a specific course to appear on a calendar. Learn at the person’s own pace in MassHire computer labs.
Free learning paths mapped to in-demand jobs, discounted Microsoft certifications to validate skills, and best practices for job searching and interview prep so people can put their best foot forward.
An 18-week program to prepare people for IT careers. The program combines technical skills, professional development, and career readiness supported by experienced and committed staff teaching in-demand skills through a mix of classes, projects, and labs. Call 413-276-0609 for more information or email them at https://thetechfoundry.org/contact-us/.
Offers former military professionals a structured pathway to earn income while learning the skills to pursue a meaningful career in the telecom sector. Email them at https://www.tirap.org/contact_us/
Expands digital access support to small businesses to protect the climate and prepare people for jobs of the future.
A Berkshire County-specific website overseen by 1Berkshire, the county’s economic development agency, where people can find a wide range of jobs, including ones in the engineering/technology sector as well as remote work. All positions posted pay at least $40K a year.
A Pittsfield-based employment agency that offers a wide range of job postings, including remote data entry positions for people with digital skills and devices.
Training from GCF Global Android phones are manufactured by different companies. To identify the phone manufacturer, Google search for the name, model, and "how to" or "guide." Most phone manufacturers have device-specific guides on their websites.
- Discount Amazon Prime (with commercials) for SNAP recipients
- Qualify
- Hoopla and Kanopy:
Many libraries across the state offer free access to online video streaming with Hoopla and/or Kanopy Check with the local library. - Other:
Many paid streaming services (e.g., Max, Netflix, Hulu) offer a free trial or have discounted sales on occasion. If the person does not want to pay, it's recommended to set up at least one reminder to cancel before the first bill arrives. Some monthly or annual services let the person cancel immediately but still enjoy the remainder of her/his subscription. - Tubi TV