Ortonville Gets Connected! New Digital Literacy Series Kicks Off This November

Free technology classes will help residents build confidence, stay connected, and navigate the digital world—thanks to an AARP Community Challenge Grant supported by Microsoft.

Technology has become part of nearly everything we do—from keeping in touch with family and friends to managing appointments, accessing services, shopping, and staying informed. But for many people, especially older adults, keeping up with constantly changing technology can feel overwhelming.

Downtown Ortonville is excited to announce the launch of the Ortonville Connected Digital Literacy Series!

Made possible through the AARP Community Challenge Grant, with funding support from Microsoft, this new initiative will offer 12 free educational sessions designed to make technology more accessible, understandable, and useful in everyday life.

Learn • Connect • Build Confidence

The Ortonville Connected Digital Literacy Series is about more than learning to use a computer or smartphone. It's about helping people feel confident, independent, and connected in an increasingly digital world.

Throughout the series, participants will have opportunities to explore practical topics such as:

• Smartphone basics and everyday features

• Recognizing online scams and staying safe online

• Using computers and navigating the internet

• Communicating with family and friends through technology

• Accessing online resources, services, and information

• Building confidence with new digital tools

All ages and experience levels are welcome! While the classes are designed primarily with older adults in mind, anyone who wants to become more comfortable with technology is encouraged to participate.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to improve your skills, there's something for you!

Our First Two Classes Are Coming Up!

We're kicking things off with two engaging, beginner-friendly classes led by Mike Wilson, an experienced computer instructor and author who has spent more than 20 years helping older adults learn technology. Known for his approachable teaching style, Mike specializes in breaking down complicated topics into simple, easy-to-understand lessons.

📱 A Basic Smartphone Class — iPhone & Android

Tuesday, November 17, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 PM
Old Town Hall | 486 Mill Street, Ortonville

Have a smartphone but feel like you're not using it to its full potential? This practical, one-hour class will help participants become more comfortable navigating their phones and understanding everyday features.

💻 Computer Scams & What Not to Click On

Wednesday, December 9, 2026 | 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
The Village Church of Ortonville | 93 N Church Street, Ortonville

Scam emails, suspicious messages, and fraudulent websites are increasingly sophisticated. Learn how to recognize potential scams, identify suspicious links, and navigate the internet with greater confidence.

Bringing Technology Education Into the Heart of Our Community

One of the most exciting parts of this initiative is that classes will take place at various times and locations throughout downtown Ortonville, making it easier for residents to participate.

Thanks to the generosity and collaboration of our community partners, sessions will be hosted at:

• Old Town Hall

• Old Mill Museum, in partnership with the Ortonville Community Historical Society

• Edna Burton Senior/Activity Center

• The Village Church of Ortonville

With daytime, lunchtime, and other convenient scheduling options planned, we're working to make these learning opportunities accessible to as many people as possible.

We're especially grateful to our community partners for opening their doors and helping us bring these programs directly to the people who can benefit from them.

Building a More Connected Ortonville

The Digital Literacy Series is part of a broader effort to improve digital connectivity in our community.

Through the AARP Community Challenge Grant, Downtown Ortonville is also expanding access to public Wi-Fi in our downtown district, helping residents and visitors stay connected while enjoying our local businesses, gathering places, and community spaces.

Together, improved connectivity and practical digital education can help reduce barriers, encourage independence, and create more opportunities for people of all ages to participate in community life.

Join Us—and Help Spread the Word!

We invite residents, families, caregivers, senior groups, and neighboring community organizations to take part in this exciting new series.

Know someone who might benefit from a little extra confidence with technology? Encourage them to attend a class, bring a friend, or register together!

Classes are free, and all ages are welcome.

Additional class topics, dates, times, and locations will be announced as the series continues.

Stay tuned for more opportunities to learn, connect, and build confidence—right here in Ortonville!

The Ortonville Connected Digital Literacy Series is made possible through the AARP Community Challenge Grant, with funding support from Microsoft.

Presented by Downtown Ortonville in partnership with the Edna Burton Senior/Activity Center, the Ortonville Community Historical Society, and The Village Church of Ortonville.