The Hormel Foundation and Riverland Community College partnership aims to reduce digital barriers and build confidence using technology

Community members who need help navigating an increasingly digital world now have a new, free resource available in the Austin area.

The Hormel Foundation Digital Navigator program, a partnership with Riverland Community College, provides free, one-on-one digital literacy training and support to community members. The initiative will be formally celebrated with an Austin Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 12:30pm, located at the Community Action Building in Austin.

Launched in conjunction with Digital Inclusion Week, the Digital Navigator initiative is designed to help people build the skills and confidence they need to use technology in their everyday lives. Erika Chavarria, Director of Digital Equity, said, “Our goal is to help people do more of what matters most. Whether someone needs a quick answer about where to find an online portal or support with a larger digital challenge, having a free, friendly resource available to help people build their digital skills can make a meaningful difference.”

Support can range from learning how to safely use websites and smartphones to getting help making an online health appointment, accessing online services, communicating digitally, or developing other technology skills.

“Digital equity is ultimately about people feeling supported, not overwhelmed,” said Molly Lanke, a board member with The Hormel Foundation who led the Foundation committee addressing digital equity. “By investing in navigators, the Foundation is helping ensure every resident has someone they can turn to — someone who listens, understands their goals, and helps them navigate an increasingly digital world with confidence.”

The initiative is guided by the Digital Navigator Advisory Board, a group of leaders representing local organizations and agencies committed to reducing digital equity barriers through community-rooted, culturally responsive strategies. The advisory board helps ensure the program responds to community needs while connecting residents with resources and opportunities to strengthen their digital skills.

The Digital Navigator program is intentionally designed as a community-owned initiative, with Riverland Community College serving as a partner and fiscal agent. Through collaboration among The Hormel Foundation, Riverland, the advisory board, and community partners, the initiative seeks to make digital support accessible to people wherever they are in their technology journey.

The Austin Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting will bring together Digital Navigator staff, advisory board members, community partners, and supporters to celebrate the launch of the initiative.

The Hormel Foundation Digital Navigator program is located at the Community Action Building, 105 1st St. SE, Austin, Minnesota.