Getting connected...literally! Accessing IT support: Call 785-532-7722 to open a technology support ticket, or review how to best manage internet expectations as we teach, learn and work remotely. There is also campus information on how to use ZOOM and learning management systems (LMS) instructors may be using. For self-help with technology issues, browse the IT knowledge base.

Zoom tips and resources from K-State: Whether you're using it for class, meetings or to casually chat with friends, learn how to make the most of Zoom.

Connect with older family members, friends and neighbors: Reaching out to isolated older adults is essential during coronavirus. Here are 7 specific ways to safely connect during this crisis with older family members, friends and neighbors.

Houseparty mobile app: Houseparty is a social networking app that allows up to eight people to video chat at once in a “room.” Users can have infinite rooms and easily float between rooms. Users can receive a notification when friends open the app and can join chats with friends (and friends of friends). There are also several built-in games to play with friends.

Bunch mobile app: Group video chat with friends while playing your favorite games! Bunch is a group video chat app for multiplayer games. It allows you to party up with friends over video, and jump into your favorite multiplayer games together. Bunch comes bundled with several multiplayer games you can play with friends. You can also launch many of your favorite multiplayer titles - and play them together over video chat!

Job Hunting and Networking: What does the coronavirus pandemic mean for your job search? You can still be actively working on your job search. These tips will help you navigate the process during the pandemic and the accompanying economic slowdown.

Donate homemade masks: Know how to sew? Share your talent with the community by making and donating homemade masks! It's important to check if a facility is able to accept homemade masks and if they have a preferred style or type of fabric, as everywhere is different. Some craft stores are doing curbside pickup for supplies, or order online. Check the Get Creative page for links to the JOANN Fabric and Craft Stores YouTube, which has several mask tutorials and tips for what to do if you don't have elastic.

• As of early April, Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan is not accepting homemade masks, but facilities like nursing homes and animal shelters may be, or if you have friends and family members who want one for while they do their essential shopping.
• Local organizations currently accepting homemade masks: Konza Prairie Community Health Center, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383, Stepping Stones Child Advocacy Center, Pawnee Mental Health Services
• Masking Manhattan: This initiative is collecting homemade masks to distribute to Manhattanites who work essential non-medical jobs or who would like one for when they go out in public for essentials like groceries. Mask collection begins April 8 and distribution begins April 13 at Westview Community Church in partnership with the Riley County Health Department; see this Facebook post for details on dates and times for drop-off and distribution.

Host a virtual potluck: Inspired by a segment on Some Good News with John Krasinski, swap favorite recipes with your friends and family members. Each person could try making something different, or you could all use the same recipe and share pictures or video of the result. Eat together over a Zoom session!

Unique date nights: Home mini golf, paint and sip classes, home movie theatres, patio "restaurants," becoming a Chopped contestant... browse this thread to find a unique themed evening to do with your significant other or roommate.

Write a letter to senior care facility residents: Some senior care facilities are no longer allowing visitors - contact a local facility to see if you'd be able to write a card (or email if they'd prefer fully contactless) to cheer residents up! You could ask if they can give you a specific name to write to, or if they'd prefer a general note of encouragement that could be shared with all residents.

Reach out to your friends and family in new ways: That friend you always text? Try mailing them a card, even if all it says is something simple, like "When we can, IOU a scoop of ice cream to eat in the park." If someone is particularly isolated by health or distance, consistently texting or emailing them a daily photo or sentence about what you did today could be a bright spot. Eldery family members or family friends may not be very good at sending digital communications back, but if they know how to open yours, that's all it takes.

Online group drawing games: Visit the Get Creative page for information on two online group drawing games (Drawful 2 and Skribbl.io) that are perfect for a fun evening with friends and family wherever they are.

Don't let Zoom (or other video chat apps) just be for business: Everyone's doing a lot of video conferencing for work and school, but make a point to set up purely social chats as well. They can be one-time or recurring, and however long or short people's schedules allow, such as a daily recurring lunchtime Zoom for coworkers to drop in as they can.

Unique conversation starters: Keep your social phone or video chats lively by moving the conversation from focusing on daily activities and the current state of the world to something deeper or more unique.

Story readalouds: Connect with the young Wildcats in your life by reading them a bedtime story over a live video chat, or send a pre-recorded video. Use a favorite childhood picture book, or read a longer book one chapter at a time. The Manhattan Public Library has thousands of ebooks available if you don't personally own a copy, and if you don't have a library card yet, Manhattan residents can now apply for a library card virtually.

Jib Jab: Send your friends and family ecards starring them, even if it's not the right time of year for a certain holiday. Free members have limited access to create, view and share a handful of Starring You videos and photos. You can find these cards by searching "Free" on jibjab.com. They can also create and share free GIFs in the JibJab mobile app.

Help people just by doing your grocery shopping: Through the Kellogg's Family Rewards program, turn your participating purchases into points that can be redeemed for a donation to Feeding America.