Friends Of Ours Cooperative is a Las Vegas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that helps older adults use technology safely, confidently and independently.

Our primary focus is older adults and seniors. Our education may also benefit disabled adults, caregivers, family members and community organizations that support older residents.

Our mission is to help older adults remain connected, safe and independent through trusted technology education, community partnerships and lifelong learning.

Healthcare, housing, banking, communication, public benefits and many everyday services are moving online. Our classes help seniors develop the skills needed to participate instead of being left behind.

Yes. Friends Of Ours community technology classes are provided to senior participants at no cost.

No. Our lessons are designed for beginners, including people who feel nervous, confused or left behind by technology.

Lessons may include smartphones, tablets and related apps and services. Topics can apply to both Apple and Android devices, although screens and steps may look different.

Yes, when possible. Learning on your own charged smartphone or tablet makes it easier to practice the same steps after class.

Bring your charged device, reading glasses if needed, and a notebook or learning manual. You may also need account information for certain activities, but never share a password with another student.

Topics include smartphone basics, texting, voice messaging, photos, apps, online safety, scam prevention, passwords, two-factor authentication, calendars, video calls, voice assistants, accessibility, cloud backup, QR codes and artificial intelligence.

Most classes are approximately 60 to 90 minutes. The length may vary depending on the lesson, location and amount of student participation.

Yes. Our instructors use patient explanations, demonstrations and hands-on practice. Students are encouraged to ask questions and learn at a comfortable pace.

An instructor or classroom volunteer may guide you with your permission, but the goal is to help you complete the steps yourself and understand what is happening.

We can explain safe password and account-recovery steps, but recovery may require access to your personal email, phone number or account provider. For your safety, do not say or display a private password in front of the class.

Classes are offered through participating libraries, housing communities and community partner locations in Southern Nevada. Core library locations have included Windmill, Sahara West, Sunrise and Summerlin.

Visit www.friendsofours501c.org/senior-tech-class-free for current information, or check announcements from the participating library or community location hosting the class.

Registration requirements may depend on the class and host location. Check the event announcement or contact the host location before attending.

Attendance rules depend on available space and the host location. Family members and caregivers are encouraged to support the student’s learning while allowing the student to practice independently.

Yes, but students should keep control of their devices and private information. Never share passwords, verification codes, Social Security numbers, banking information or other sensitive details in a group setting.

Stop before clicking a link, downloading a file, calling the number in the message or sending money. Contact the organization through a trusted number or website that you find independently.

No organization can guarantee that. We teach warning signs, safer habits and verification steps that can help reduce risk and improve decision-making.

No. Our classes provide general educational information. Students should contact the appropriate bank, government agency, attorney or qualified professional for decisions about a specific account or legal matter.

Friends Of Ours focuses on free community education. Separate paid individual assistance may be available through Tech Of Ours for seniors who prefer private, personalized instruction.

Yes. Libraries, senior communities, housing organizations and community groups may contact Friends Of Ours to discuss hosting a class, presentation or educational partnership.

Yes. Sponsorships can help support instructors, classroom materials, senior-friendly manuals, educational media and expanded access to free classes.

Volunteers may assist students with basic classroom activities, registration, handouts and guided practice. Qualified professionals may also be considered as guest speakers for specific lesson topics.

Yes. Donations help Friends Of Ours continue providing free technology education and learning resources for older adults. Visit https://friendsofours501c.org/sip-carry-wear

Visit www.friendsofours501c.org to learn more, request information or discuss classes, partnerships, sponsorships, volunteer opportunities and community presentations.