FJC Digital Navigator Program

Falmouth Community Television (FCTV) has launched the Digital Navigator Program, a free, community-based initiative designed to help residents build the digital skills and confidence they need to participate fully in modern life. Funded by an $85,000 grant from the Massachusetts Broadband Institute Municipal Digital Equity Implementation Fund, the program connects residents with trained volunteers who offer one-on-one and small-group technology support at locations throughout town.

FJC has been selected as a community partner for the Digital Navigator Program, a free, community-based initiative designed to help residents of the area gain the skills, tools, and confidence needed to thrive in today’s digital world. The Program will connect FJC members with local, trained volunteers, known as Digital Navigators, who provide patient, nonjudgmental, one-on-one support and small-group learning. The goal of the program is simple: To help you feel comfortable and capable in the digital world.

Some of us have difficulty accessing online healthcare portals and mobil banking applications; trouble applying for jobs or obtaining benefits and town services online; and, problems using email, messaging, and video calls. This is known as the “digital divide” and is more difficult for people who lack basic computer skills and have limited or no access to home computers or reliable, affordable internet.

Through the program at FJC you will be able to attend a small group class or work one-on-one with a volunteer digital navigator. You can get help with a wide range of needs: setting up and using a smartphone, tablet, or computer; navigating telehealth platforms and healthcare portals; applying for jobs and benefits; accessing town and government services; managing email and passwords; and connecting with others through video calls. If you don’t have a device at home, the program can provide you with access to a laptop or Chromebook that you can borrow for use at home.

FJC congregants, Elliot Greene and Mike Bihari have been designated as Digital Navigators and will provide one-on-one assistance in the Righter Library.

Mike can help you with Apple devices and has special expertise in finding reliable health and other information online. He can also help you use and understand your healthcare portal and answer your questions about safely using AI. Initially Mike will schedule sessions at 10AM on the following days:

  • Jul 09
  • Aug 13
  • Sep 10
  • Oct 08

Elliot can assist you with PC and Android devices and has expertise about online consumer scams. Initially Elliot will schedule sessions at 10AM on the following days:

  • Jul 23
  • Aug 27
  • Sep 24
  • Oct 22

To make an appointment please email programs@falmouthjewish.org or call the FJC office at (508) 540-0602.

If you have any questions about the program or need assistance when Mike or Elliot are not scheduled please contact Mike at programs@falmouthjewish.org. To learn more about the Digital navigation Program and other community sites offering free digital services, visit the Falmouth Digital Program page at: https://fctv.org/digital.

Michael Bihari, MD

Chair, FJC Learning & Engagement Committee