Digital Navigation Support
Our digital navigator, Rich Vaden, is our Digital Navigator for Franklin County and the North Quabbin Region, a role focused on helping community members access the tools, skills, and confidence they need to navigate the digital world. Whether assisting with basic device setup, guiding someone through an online job application, or offering tips on safe internet use, Rich provides one-on-one support tailored to each individual’s needs.
The Digital Navigator position is made possible through a partnership between United Way, Baystate Health and the Mass Broadband Institute creates support for digital connection across Western Massachusetts. This collaboration aims to close digital gaps by increasing access to devices, affordable internet, and digital literacy resources throughout the region.
Through drop-in hours, workshops, and outreach efforts, Rich works directly with residents and community partners to ensure everyone has the opportunity to stay connected, informed, and included in an increasingly digital world.
If you or your organization is interested in some free Digital Navigation support from Rich, sign up with our form below.
(413) 584-3962 ext. 111
rich@uw-fh.org
Find more digital connection opportunities with
Digital Hotspot Program
What we do: the Mobile Hotspot Program
The Mobile Hotspot Lending Program helps bridge the digital divide by providing free mobile hotspot devices to individuals who need reliable internet access. Hotspots offer internet access through cellular networks, enabling users to connect from home or on the go without needing a traditional Wi-Fi setup. Devices are available to borrow for up to 12 months and include an active unlimited data plan at no cost to the user. A free waterproof case is also available upon request.
The program is administered by United Way of Franklin and Hampshire Region in partnership with local organizations working to improve access to technology and online resources. Through this effort, more residents are able to complete essential online tasks such as accessing health care, education, job applications, and community services.
We have distributed over 500 hot spots to participating agencies as of Spring 2025, and with MobileBeacon we have provided opportunities for a year of connectivity. Our important community partners distribute them to local families.
Reach out to the organizations below if you’re in need of connectivity supplies.
If you are a Western Mass organization and are interested in requesting Hotspots, please fill out this form.
Why Digital Navigation?
The Digital Navigator program is a Western Massachusetts, broad-based coalition of over a hundred community-based organizations working collectively towards digital connection for all people. Access to critical digital content is a challenge with many layers. Content that is multilingual, adapted for all literacy levels, that provides information about community services, transportation, health, insurance and job seeking are some areas that need to be addressed.
In our digitally centered world, it has become essential to livelihood to have internet access, the proper equipment, and the knowledge and skills in order to participate in the world. As it is always the mission of the United Way to uplift our community so they can thrive, we recognize how supporting digital literacy has become critical to giving communities access to resources. Without connectivity, many people must go without education, health care, social services, and cannot access the opportunities to grow in their lives.
Digital wellness has become a new barrier that causes significant difficulty and strain to families in western mass and across the country. Our goal is to give people the access they need—to the equipment, to the infrastructure, and to the knowledge and skills—and that will allow them to fully participate in the digital world.
