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Follow on Google News | Volunteer-led Computer Training Provides Digital Access for Thousands of Seniors in SFCommunity Technology Network unites organizations and volunteers to transform lives through digital literacy, and has deployed 200 computers to increase seniors and adults with disabilities access to broadband in under-served communities.
By: www.ctnbayarea.org It is hard to imagine not being able to navigate a computer desktop or watch a YouTube video, but for many Americans, particularly seniors and adults with disabilities, using a computer or the Internet is an enigma that materially affects their ability to find jobs and access numerous social and health benefits. Community Technology Network (CTN) is changing that. The San Francisco-based nonprofit that hosts programs to support and enhance digital literacy in the Bay Area’s most vulnerable neighborhoods has partnered with the Department of Technology (DT) and the Department of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) to deploy over 200 Hewlett Packard TouchSmart computers at over 50 locations that serve seniors and adults with disabilities. The computer deployment is part of the National Telecommunication Information Administration’ CTN bridges the digital divide by training volunteers to apply the technology and computer skills they use every day by working 1-on-1 with clients or teaching classes on tools like email, Microsoft Word, and Facebook. These teaching opportunities transform lives in the simplest yet most profound ways, and allow volunteers to develop leadership skills, while making a tangible impact in ‘disconnected’ One volunteer, Kyle Warneck, has pulled from his tech expertise as Product Manager for SurveyMonkey to teach introductory social media classes on Saturday mornings for the last four years. “Volunteering with CTN is a way to use the tech skills I take for granted to benefit a broader community,” says Warneck. “It’ CTN further promotes digital inclusion by building the capacity of community-based organizations and nonprofits that serve the ‘disconnected’ “We're excited to work with CTN to engage skills-based volunteers in helping nonprofits make better use of online tools and technology,” In 2011, CTN volunteers trained more than 1,400 individuals and gave over 1,700 hours promoting digital engagement and inclusion. CTN looks forward to doubling their volunteer recruitment and training hours in 2012. Visit www.ctnbayarea.org to volunteer or donate today. End
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