Digital Navigator Program

Get connected and improve your digital skills

 

In 2024 HCC applied for and received a grant to help the community with connecting to the internet and digital skills.   So much of modern life--school, work, health and financial business--requires the ability to use the internet effectively.  As such, we teach classes to improve basic computer skills, assist with finding a good device, and provide coaching on finding internet access.  

Our webpage includes:   class information, resources for HCC students, information on learning digital skills, getting started help by device, help finding internet service, electronics recycling info, and information on contacting us.

Class Offerings

To signup for a class, please reach out to us by phone or by using one of our contact options at the bottom of the page.   There is no charge for any class, and you can become eligible to receive a laptop.  

Canton Branch Library:  Internet Security:  Basics of Cybersecurity  Thursday, August 20th at 2PM.   

Learn to keep yourself safe online: create safe and secure accounts and passwords, recognize the warning signs of a scam, and more.  For Adults. Registration is required. Contact Jennifer at 828-648-2924 or jennifer.stuart@haywoodcountync.gov to register.

Waynesville Branch Library:  What is the Cloud?  Thursday, September 3, 2026, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Do you wonder what is meant by "the cloud"?   This workshop will explain what that term means in everyday language.  We will:  learn to recognize common cloud services you may already use; discuss the benefits and risks of the cloud; and discuss storing and opening items via the cloud.  You're welcome to bring your own device.  Contact Mason at 828-356-2507 or mason.vanderlugt@haywoodcountync.gov to register. 

 

Here are other community partners.   

• Givens Great Laurels
• Haywood Senior Resource Center
• Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center
• Fines Creek Community Association
• Haywood Pathways Center
• Waynesville Tower

Resources for HCC Students

If you are a registered student at HCC, here are some resources:

• Students may qualify for a free device from the Foundation while supplies are available.   Fill out the Tools and Tech form on the Scholarships page and submit via email or deliver to the Foundation's office in the Balsam building.  
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• Windows laptops and mobile internet hotspots for checkout by semester at the library in the Alder building.  
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• The IT department page for info on Tech Tuesday--in-person staff assistance in the library--and other help resources.

Learn Skills

We use the Northstar digital literacy curriculum for many of our classes.  You are welcome to create an account on our Northstar portal and learn on your own at no cost.   Classes are available in English and Spanish and are self-guided.  Take an assessment to see what you need to learn.   Badges are available for each course you complete.  

To use Northstar online you need:  a device with internet access, an email address and the skills to check your email, and the skills to use an internet browser.  Classes are most easily navigated using a desktop or laptop computer.   Here's the curriculum.  

Curious what Northstar is like?  Take a practice assessment here.   

Other skills sites:

Help by Device

 

Our Technology Partners

Finding Internet Service 

Search for low-cost internet service using EveryoneOn.org.  

Other options in our area for low-income families:

• Spectrum's Internet Assist program 
• AT&T's Access program  

Also, signup for a monthly internet service discount through the federal Lifeline program.

Curious what internet options you have at your home?   Use the FCC's National Broadband Map.  You can enter your address and see what's available.  

 

Donating or Recycling Old Electronics

If you're looking to recycle or dispose of electronics in Haywood County, here are some options:

• Through the Trees in Brevard is a non-profit device upcycler.   They take older computers, tablets and phones, refurbish them if possible, and then resell or redistribute them.   They accept donations in-person or via mail and will securely remove user information.   They currently accept:  desktop and laptop computers and accessories (cables), mobile phones, tablets, TV sound bars & desktop speakers (3.5mm Aux), digital cameras, and gaming systems.   

• Best Buy.  Local stores accept electronics recycling--up to 3 items per household per day.   More information.
• Haywood County's Materials Recovery Center near HCC's main campus.   They do not accept electronics at the local convenience centers.   More information.

Contact Us

Our regular office hours are weekday afternoons until 4PM, but we do recommend scheduling an appointment.

We offer three easy ways to contact us:

Phone:  828.564.5121.
Email:  hcc-digitalnav@haywood.edu.
Office location:   Regional High Tech Center, 112 Industrial Park Dr, Waynesville

The center is on the same street as Sarge's Animal Rescue Foundation.  Also, the industrial park entrance is at the traffic light near Junaluska Animal Hospital.  Here's a map.

Also, anyone in North Carolina can dial 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162 for a free and confidential call with a trained community resource specialist.  They will listen, identify needs and connect you to local resources.  Thanks to partnership with United Way, these agents can assist with digital resource needs, too.  

Digital Navigators