Left In Lowell

Lowell has dozens if non-profit organizations that provide services to the elderly, the homeless, the needy and immigrants. Recently, I have become aware and now involved with a group of volunteers that provides a unique and worthy service to these non-profits.

Since 2001, Community Software Lab has provided no-cost and advertising free email, web hosting, and other Internet services to non-profit organizations. CLS also provides technology consulting and develop custom software non-profits as inexpensively as possible. Their mission is to help non-profit organizations use technology to better assist those they serve.

The organization, led by Dan McNeil relies on motivated volunteers. They have recently received a small grant to provide about 2 hours of tech support per week to 10 community organizations in Lowell. They are looking for a retired baby boomer. In addition to self-satisfaction that the volunteer will receive, they will participate in the once a week luncheon meeting provided by the grant.

According to Dan, in order “to handle this work, you need to demonstrate slightly more than basic computer literacy. You should be able to put files in folders and find them again; be able to explain the difference between a driver and a ham sandwich. It would be helpful if you have installed RAM, but that is less important than a genuine affection for computers, the people who use them and their fine manuals. It would if you are more than 50 years old, since main purpose of the grant is to keep idle baby boomers off the streets and out of mischief.”

If you are interested in volunteering or if you know of someone who may be a good fit, you can contact Dan at CSL. The lab is located in the basement of U. Mass/Lowell Alumni Hall.