Help Residents Navigate Technology! Become a Tech Tutor at Shillman House (Framingham, MA)

Program Summary: 2Life is in need of volunteers to help build residents’ confidence in navigating technology. Tech volunteers will provide one-on-one tech support in person in Computer Centers and in residents’ apartments when required. The tech mastery of 2Life’s residents varies; some residents are just learning how to send emails, while others are learning how to edit photos. Tech Tutors are not expected to solve every tech issue, they are asked to try their best!

Key responsibilities:

• Meet with residents one-on-one either in campus Computer Center or in resident apartments.
• Train residents on using Computer Center PC computers, printers, and scanners, as well as Chromebooks and tablets borrowed by residents from 2Life.
• Train residents on using their own personal devices, which include laptops, tablets and smartphones.
• Establish residents’ tech mastery goals, train residents on technical skills, write out lists of steps for residents, occasionally troubleshoot residents’ devices at a very basic level, etc.

Impact Goal: Empower residents to confidently access technology, participate in virtual programs hosted by 2Life, and connect with their loved ones and community supports.

Qualifications:

• Basic knowledge of computers, tablets and smartphones
• Experience sending emails, using a smartphone, listening to audio books, uploading photos, etc.
• Ability to explain tech terminology using simple language and in multiple ways
• Flexibility, patience and a good sense of humor

Time Commitment/Schedule: Work with residents for 2-4 hours/week during business hours. Volunteer must commit to at least three months.

Benefits: Obtain experience working with older adults, accomplish something rewarding, empower residents to use new technology, cultivate new intergenerational friendships, and practice your instruction skills.