The Online News Association may be best known for training and inspiring journalists employed by major daily news outlets -- but this organization also offers local events that could be useful to anyone involved with informing and engaging communities.

Local groups. ONA has 19 local groups in cities around the U.S., as well as nine student chapters associated with U.S. journalism schools. Also, there are 11 ONA local groups in other countries. These groups host meetings, trainings and other events and opportunities related to digital technology and news. Usually, these are open to anyone (not just ONA members).

For instance, the ONA New York City group has two events coming up this month:

• Feb. 18 panel: The Future of User-Generated Content and the News ($5)
• Feb. 22 all-day workshop: Using Design Thinking for Digital Storytelling in the Post-Sandy Era ($10)

"ONA Local is a global network of volunteer organizers hosting networking and training events for local journalism and technology communities. These collaborative and resource-sharing communities are essential to achieving ONA's mission: connecting journalism, technology and innovation."

If there's no ONA local group near you, you can start one if you're an ONA member. And if you're not already a member, you can join ONA.

ONACamps. These free intensive digital journalism training sessions are supported by grants from the Gannett Foundation. Most recently, an ONACamp focused on mobile was held Feb. 8 at UNC Chapel Hill, N.C.

"ONACamp sessions are tailored specifically to the needs of independent, community, non-profit, displaced and employed journalists, bloggers and entrepreneurs. Trainers include leaders in their fields, covering the latest in multimedia, blogging, mobile, legal and business issues, free web tools, marketing through social networks and finding a niche on the web."

If you'd like to see an ONACamp in your city, e-mail [email protected] and explain your need or idea.