Tech Center Programs – Located in Manchester but residents from all towns are welcome.
UR Community Cares Tech Center is located at 153 Spruce Street, Manchester, CT (1st floor of Eastside Neighborhood Resource Center).
Make 1 on 1 Appts or drop in to meet with our volunteers! Hours: Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, 10am to 3pm.
UR Community Tech Center is a free resource, designed to help older and people with disabilities use technology, avoid scams, understand AI and more. We offer volunteer coaches to assist people with their technology questions.
People bring in their smartphone or other mobile device for guidance. You can attend small classes on popular topics and join us at monthly social events. Practice your skills using our laptops and secure internet provided.
We empower individuals through technology. Our group workshops, courses, and lectures equip learners with essential online skills to boost civic engagement, financial security, and health literacy. We provide hands-on learning with available laptops.
Our Volunteers
Donna, Steve, Audrey, Megan, Ken are staples in the Tech Center, you will see their smiling faces when you step inside. Please call us if you would like to volunteer in some way, 860-430-4557.
Our dedicated volunteers and individuals from various subsidized programs come together to uplift members of our community with digital literacy support. Their willingness to contribute their time and energy speaks volumes about the compassion and solidarity that drives our work. It’s inspiring to see so many people united in their desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Volunteer Roles in the UR Community Tech Center
Support Volunteer: Help create a welcoming and organized environment at the UR Community Tech Center. Responsibilities include answering phones, assisting with light clerical tasks, greeting visitors, and helping set up and serve refreshments during events. Volunteers also make reminder calls to participants about upcoming programs and assist with light housekeeping to ensure the space is clean and inviting. Your friendly presence helps make every visitor feel supported and connected.
Center Leader: Provide assistance to individuals seeking help with basic computer skills, internet navigation, the use of various devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, laptops) and provide socialization and resources. Device Troubleshooting: Help troubleshoot common issues with phones, tablets, and laptops, offering guidance on problem-solving. Guide individuals in developing improved email communication, online research, and the use of apps.
Trainer: Monthly commitment 5 hours, with Workshop, Course or Lecture facilitation. Lead or assist the Executive Director in conducting tech workshops for seniors (age 50+) on topics such as online safety, social media, basic software applications, and more. Take training classes with Senior Planet to become an official trainer.
Ambassador: Administrative support to check people in/out, set up games online or board games, offer people your time to discuss their life stories and offer town/state resources for those in need.
Senior Planet
We are the first Senior Planet licensing program in Connecticut to deliver their proprietary curriculum and bring world-class programs to older adults in Hartford, Tolland, New London, Windham and Middlesex Counties.
We offer a combination of scheduled classes – expertly designed by Senior Planet in partnership with AARP. Our trained instructors and classroom volunteers provide a comfortable and inviting place to learn digital skills. Whether you are a true novice, a beginner or someone who currently uses electronic devices but want to expand your skills, we can help. Attendees can learn all things digital, including social media, staying safe online, live video events and more.
Tech Center On The Road
- AVON SENIOR CENTER TECH CLASSES — Time 2:00 – 3:30 PM
Dates: November 17th, December 15th
Sign up by calling Avon Senior Center 860-675-4355
- BLOOMFIELD SENIOR CENTER TECH CLASSES — Time 12:30-2 PM
Dates: November 19, December 17
Schedule Tech Time with Michelle Puzzo 10:30 AM-12 PM
Sign up by calling Bloomfield Senior Center 860-243-8364
- Bethany Senior Center — Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Dates: November 24, December 15
Sign up by calling Bethany Senior Center 203-393-2100 x1124
Watch Nora L. Duncan, State Director, AARP Connecticut discuss Senior Planet with Michelle Puzzo and Mario Rubano
How to Get Involved
You can register for monthly happenings at the Tech Center with the registration above, or call 860-430-4557 and we can register you over the phone. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you would like to be a volunteer or with any questions about our courses or registering!
Our Location: All events are held at UR Community Tech Center, located in Eastside Neighborhood Resource Center – 153 Spruce Street, Manchester, CT. Park in the lot diagonally across the street and use the door buzzer to be let in.
Partner With Us: If you would like to be a trainer under our license and teach at your library, center or location, contact us and we can give you much more information.
