People Need People: Tech CU Supports Peninsula Volunteers, Inc

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Community Spotlight Blog Post

Last Updated: May 16, 2023

People need people. No one is meant to go through life without support, yet that is often what happens as people reach their older years. That is why Tech CU is a proud supporter of Peninsula Volunteers, Inc (PVI), an organization dedicated to enabling older individuals to lead independent lives and engage with their communities.

Tech CU regularly provides funds to PVI's "Tech Connect" program, which provides seniors with technology devices (iPads) and the necessary training as a means of keeping them connected.

Since PVI's began offering its first Tech Connect class in September 2021, 53 seniors have received iPads and successfully completed PVI's training classes. The seniors have become more confident with technology, learned new skills, and made new friends.

The program today consists of an 8-week introductory session where students learn and practice the basics including learning how to use Zoom, take photos, use email, safely explore the Internet, and more. At the end of the introductory session, they have the option to take a 4-week advanced course where they learn to edit photos, work with Apple Maps, advanced email management techniques, and advanced Zoom skills. Each class consists of 5-7 students, volunteers, and an instructor. The classes have been really well received. Here is what students have to say:

The iPad instruction course given by our instructors was a great help for first time users. Our teachers are knowledgeable and generous in giving their time resulting in happy users. The printouts they handed out are helpful in referring back to for review. Thank you! - Aiko

Appreciated all that I learned as it proved very helpful on the use of the iPad. - HY

I am very pleased I took this course. I learned what certain words meant and don't have to constantly ask my sons for help. That was my primary reason for taking the class. The class was very relaxing with patience and was taught by the teacher and other students. - Arlene

The classes were excellent! I especially appreciated your detailed handouts and the knowledge, patience, and sense of humor of the teachers. To have use of an iPad for a year is remarkable. Thank you for a wonderful experience!"- Carol

I felt the class was perfectly paced and week after week we built on our iPad skills and knowledge. And the fact that we are able to take the iPads home to continue our growth is a big bonus! Really appreciate the excellent descriptive lesson plans/handouts, to keep and use as a resource after classes are over. Very comfortable, safe environment, friendly approachable teachers, and volunteers with lots of 1 on 1 time as needed.- Diane

In addition to the Tech Connect Program, PVI offers a range of life-affirming activities and essential services such as social events, home meal delivery, rideshare services, wellness services, affordable housing and more.

Interested in furthering PVI's mission help seniors age in place? Pease consider donating at https://1pvi.org/donate/ or volunteering at https://1pvi.org/volunteer/.