VTel donates computers and broadband  to Springfield Senior Center

(Springfield, VT) – January 25, 2011 – Vermont Telephone Company and the Springfield Senior Center have partnered to provide free computer classes to community members 50 years and older.

To show support for the initiative VTel donated newer computers, provided faster internet, and offered free internet connectivity to the Center for four out of the five months that the classes will be held.

Community Broadband Team Director, Tess Gauthier of VTel says, “It’s a neat project.  By combining resources, we can develop the program to reach more people. The Springfield Senior Center is imparting computer and internet skills, to seniors; empowering them with greater access to information relevant to their lives and increasing their ability to connect with family members.”

Terri Emerson, Director of Springfield Senior Center, explains, “Classes are intended for people ranging from who have never touched a computer in their life to those who may just need to sharpen their skills.” She goes on to say, “While many seniors experience decreased mobility, they should not have to suffer from decreased social connections and learning to use the internet can alleviate some of the isolation too many experience.”

Linda Haines, a recently retired Springfield resident and volunteer, has been the driving force behind the computer program at the Springfield Senior Center.  Linda notes, “The biggest benefit of learning to use a computer and the internet is the ability to connect with loved ones.”  She goes on to say, “Everyone learns differently, but once you get the basics down it’s easy to get the hang of.”

Classes are taught one-on-one at the Springfield Senior Center, are completely free, and will run February-June, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9-11.

Spots are filling up quickly, so if you are interested in benefiting from this free offer, please call Terri Emerson at 802-885-3933.  If you have a personal laptop you would like to learn on, you are welcome to bring it.