Move Bunkie Forward Receives $15,000 AARP Grant to Offer Free Digital Literacy Classes

New “Golden Connections” program will help older adults learn computer skills, internet safety and everyday technology.

BUNKIE, La. — Move Bunkie Forward has been awarded a $15,000 grant through the 2026 AARP Community Challenge program to expand digital literacy opportunities for older adults in the Bunkie community.

The organization was selected as one of 750 recipients nationwide through AARP's Flagship Grant program. Funding has been used to purchase computers and accessories for hands-on instruction, giving residents an opportunity to become more comfortable using technology.

Although Move Bunkie Forward primarily focuses on healthy eating and active living, Executive Director Michelle Reynolds said the organization saw an opportunity to address another important community need.

“Although digital literacy is not directly aligned with our primary focus, I recognized a gap in our community and an opportunity to help fill it,” Reynolds said.

“Our mission has always been about moving Bunkie forward, and sometimes that means stepping into spaces where a need exists and working alongside others to find a solution. We want our older adults to have the tools, knowledge, and confidence to remain independent, informed, and connected.”

Free Classes Begin October 29

Through partnerships with the Avoyelles Parish Library and the City of Bunkie, Move Bunkie Forward will introduce Golden Connections: Digital Skills for Everyday Life, a free six-week digital literacy program.

The program will begin with an Internet Basics kickoff session on Thursday, October 29, at the Bunkie Library.

Regular classes will be offered at two locations:

• Tuesdays at 9 a.m. — Bunkie Middle School Gymnasium
• Thursdays — Bunkie Library (time not specified)

Classes will continue through December 10, with no class on Thanksgiving Day, November 26.

The program is designed primarily for older adults but will provide practical technology skills useful to anyone interested in improving their digital confidence.

What Participants Will Learn

The six-week program will cover:

• October 29 — Internet Basics: Connecting to Wi-Fi, using browsers and searching online.
• November 3 and 5 — Getting Comfortable with Computers: Learning computer parts, keyboard and mouse functions, and basic navigation.
• November 10 and 12 — Exploring the Internet: Using search engines, finding reliable websites and locating community information.
• November 17 and 19 — Email and Staying Connected: Sending emails, sharing pictures and learning basic video calling.
• November 24 — Online Safety and Scam Awareness: Recognizing suspicious messages, protecting personal information and creating secure passwords.
• December 1 and 3 — Technology for Everyday Life: Using telehealth portals, online forms, documents and digital services.
• December 8 and 10 — Practice, Confidence and Celebration: Reviewing skills, completing hands-on activities and celebrating participants' progress.

Each 60-minute session will include breakfast and fellowship, instructor demonstrations, hands-on practice, questions and door prizes.

Beyond computer education, organizers hope the program will encourage social connections, lifelong learning and greater independence among older residents.

Move Bunkie Forward expressed appreciation to AARP, the Avoyelles Parish Library and the City of Bunkie for supporting the initiative.

More Information

The Golden Connections program is free to participants.

For additional information, contact Lucille Daniels with Move Bunkie Forward at (318) 792-1956.

Move Bunkie Forward is a community-based nonprofit dedicated to improving quality of life through healthy eating, active living, education and community partnerships.