making connections in a connected world
March 9, 2010
Our stories have talked a lot about bridging gaps and making differences through things like tutoring, youth development and academics. This story takes a different, yet equally powerful approach to bridging gaps between those around us. Laura is an AmeriCorps member serving with the Community Technology Empowerment Project, which is a great program. We live in such a technology-saturated world, and this program strives to bring that technology and the information behind it to those who may be less exposed and less familiar with it. This story touches on both the importance of sharing that information, as well as the sentiments behind what it can provide for those we serve. Thanks for the story, Laura!
At one of our basic computer classes, I was working with a gentleman who had recently moved to the Twin Cities from Ethiopia. He had minimal computer skills, but was eager to learn as he had just purchased a laptop computer, and would proudly bring it along with him to our computer lab for class. While teaching a semi-basic e-mail class, I used examples for what a powerful communication tool the Internet has become. Alluding to the website Skype.com, I mentioned how Skype allows the user to talk to other users over the Internet with a simple download. Skype will then act in place of a phone, without charging long distance fees. It also has an amazing video-chat feature built in!
As you may have already pieced together, this student was particularly ecstatic about this opportunity, as he had left many family members behind in Ethiopia. He stayed after class that day, determined not to leave without downloading Skype on his computer.
After several practice calls from his computer, he was on his way to the store to purchase a webcam to bring to his family when he visited over the holiday season. I still am in contact with this student. This is a story that reminds me that we, as AmeriCorps members, are making a difference in the community, even in seemingly simple ways.
I enjoy bridging a digital gap through teaching basic computer skills to those who have never used a computer or have minimal experience with one, so they too can enjoy this incredible Information Era.
Laura Smith
AmeriCorps Member with Community Technology Empowerment Program
