YOUR GIFT FOSTERS CONNECTION!
With the holidays right around the corner, many of us are preparing to reunite with loved ones and gather with friends. But for older adults who live alone, have family in other countries, or lack the ability to travel, this time of year could prompt feelings of social isolation and loneliness. Today’s tech can help mitigate this problem — offering us access to virtual events and Zoom-call gatherings — but not everyone can benefit from such tools. Want to help bring people together through technology?
By contributing to CTN’s end-of-year giving campaign, you can invest in connection for countless older adults learning to navigate the net. Our multilingual programs help older and low-income adults utilize new communication tools and remain active in their communities. Everyone — regardless of age or income level — deserves the tools of connection.
Visit our CommitChange page to check out the many ways you can give to CTN.
NEW TECH USERS BENEFIT FROM LIFE ONLINE
Enil J Claros joined CTN’s digital literacy training programs at the Hamilton Family Apartments. Originally from Honduras, Enil moved to the U.S. with his family two years ago in pursuit of a better life. While he had some experience with computers from previous jobs, Enil is motivated to expand his digital skill set to embark on a career in computer programming.
“We are moving on to an extremely demanding digital era,” says Enil. “This course doesn’t teach programming, obviously, but it does allow you to know how to use the web and search engines to figure out what sites to go to for learning and getting into programming. … Not only that, but there are such amazing people who want you to get better at using a computer!”
Another learner, John Thompson, discovered CTN through the city of San Francisco’s Department of Disability and Aging Services. He entered our Home Connect program with his own laptop, but at the time, he lacked access to at-home broadband. With CTN’s help, John received a hotspot device for temporary internet service and assistance in signing up for discounted internet service through the Lifeline and Emergency Broadband Benefit programs. While this process has its challenges, John is glad to be reoriented in the digital world through Home Connect. “There are some amazing sources online,” says John. “Brilliant, insightful sources of information … even if it is hard to dig out.”
CTN has some amazing people join our programs — all with unique backgrounds and interests. Check out more learner spotlight stories to see how digital literacy can transform lives.
COMMUNITY TECH NETWORK SPOTLIGHT
FUNDER: CTA FOUNDATION
CTN’s longtime funding partner, the CTA Foundation, links seniors and people with disabilities with technologies that enhance their quality of life. This year, CTAF’s funding will support 40 unique learners in our Texas-based Senior Connect program. Read more about the CTA Foundation’s work for digital inclusion.
PARTNERS: FAMILY CAREGIVER ALLIANCE
With funding from San Francisco Tech Council, CTN teamed up with Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA) to train their Spanish-speaking caregivers how to use an Android tablet. Check out how our collaborative partnership is improving the lives of FCA’s older caregivers.
VOLUNTEER: HANYANG XU
“Every time I start working with the older adults, I feel like I’m shortening the gap between our generation and theirs,” says volunteer digital coach Hanyang Xu. Read how Hanyang uses his Cantonese skills to help new learners explore the internet.
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