Creating a Local Services Map with Google My Maps: A Resource for Adult Education Agencies

In adult education, helping learners access essential community resources can have a significant impact by removing barriers and fostering empowerment. Google My Maps offers a practical, interactive tool that allows agencies to create customized maps of local services, ensuring learners can easily find the support they need.

❓Why Create a Local Services Map?

A local services map provides learners with a visual representation of nearby resources. This can be especially helpful for newcomers to a community or learners working to navigate unfamiliar systems. By creating a map, agencies highlight vital services available in the community and empower learners to access these resources independently. Additionally, such maps serve as valuable tools for directors, teachers, and learners by simplifying the process of finding and sharing helpful information.

📍Gathering Information for Your Map

The first step is to compile a list of local resources that may benefit your learners. Consider including your adult education centers, education programs, public libraries, community health centers, workforce development agencies, food banks, shelters, and childcare services. Including a variety of resources ensures that learners have access to the support systems they require.

To make the process easier, use a Google Spreadsheet to collect and organize this information. Include fields for the name of the resource, address, phone number, website, and a brief description. To help you get started, we have provided a copy of a sample spreadsheet here.

🗺️Create Your Custom Google Map from a Spreadsheet

Once your spreadsheet is complete, follow these steps to build your map:

1. Open Google My Maps: Visit Google My Maps and click Create a New Map.

2. Import Your Data: Select the Import option and upload your spreadsheet. Ensure your data is organized, with accurate addresses.

3. Customize Your Map: Choose icons and colors for different categories of resources to enhance readability.

4. Add Layers: Use layers to separate categories like healthcare, education, and food assistance.

5. Provide Descriptions: Include summaries and contact information for each service.

↩️Alternative Option: Adding information directly to your map

A Google spreadsheet is not required for creating your resource map. If preferred, you can search and add resources directly to your map. Google Applied Digital Skills has a video series that shows this process. Click this link to view the lesson.

📩Sharing Your Map and Update

After completing your map, share it with learners, educators, and community partners. Google My Maps allows you to generate a shareable link or embed the map directly into your agency’s website.  Remember, it is important to keep your map current by reviewing and updating resources periodically. At this time, additions to your Google spreadsheet will not automatically update your map, so be sure to re-upload your map data as it changes.

Digital Equity Partners in Connecticut Map was created to share services available in CT to help people connect to the internet and technology.

(Map Link)

Creating a local services map with Google My Maps is a straightforward yet impactful way to support adult learners. By providing them with easy access to essential resources, agencies can foster independence and confidence within their communities. Take the first step by using the sample Google Spreadsheet provided to organize your resources and begin building your map today.

For additional guidance, visit Google’s My Maps Help Center for step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips.