Avoiding social isolation is on of the biggest
challenges facing LGBT older adults. One of the ways to avoid isolation is to
remain connected with family, friends and the community through the use of
technology. Too often, seniors don’t fully understand the complexities of
technologies that seem to change constantly. They are also apprehensive about
the security or safety of their personal information in using technology to
navigate the cyber-world.
This program was designed to raise awareness,
and help LGBT older adults develop a working knowledge of the resources
available to help them keep connected. It also provided an opportunity for
attendees to network, share experiences, build relationships and lessen the
potential for social isolation and the accompanying health risks.
“Keeping Connected: Seniors & Technology” was presented on
Saturday, April 12, 2014, from 10:00 am until 12:30 pm at the United Way
Building on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, PA. The program featured
workshops in which attendees were able to explore how to get the most out of
their computer, smartphone or tablet ... or how to turn them on and get started
using them. Workshops were also offered on the best ways to keep information
safe and secure when using the net and how to maintain privacy. One workshop
focused on tips for Social Networking on the web.
PRESENTERS
Kelly Binder is a Digital Literacy
Instructor and has been teaching computer classes at Philadelphia FIGHT for
over 3 years. Before joining Philadelphia FIGHT, Kelly worked as
an EL/Civics and Move Up instructor for Pathways PA, after graduating from
Temple University with a B.S in mathematics in 2008.
Ming Chou has a bachelor’s degree
in Biology on the pre-med track, minoring in Chemistry and English. Ming is now
in a masters program for Biomedical Science. Ming currently works for a
cloud-based company as a network engineer. Prior to this position, Ming
was with Apple.
Paul Blore served as Executive
Assistant at the William Way LGBT Community Center, where one of his duties was
to manage the organization’s social media. Paul volunteers with the Human
Rights Campaign and with “I’m From Driftwood.” This LGBTQ Story Archive (www.imfromdriftwood.com). Paul is
currently the Executive Assistant at Synygy, Inc. in Chester, PA.
Shante
Miller
is a Digital Literacy Trainer for Philadelphia FIGHT. Her educational
background includes Master of Arts from Pennsylvania State University. Shante
has extensive training in the education field as well as public service. Her
experience includes teaching in the areas of technology, mathematics, history
and literacy to adolescents and adults.
COLLABORATORS AND
SPONSORS
The
LGBT Elder Initiative presented “Keeping Connected” in a collaborative effort
with Philadelphia FIGHT, Center in the Park, and Penn’s Village. The program was
made possible by the generous support of Delaware Valley Legacy Fund, Philadelphia Gay News and the United Way
of Greater Philadelphia and Southeastern New Jersey.
RESOURCES
Critical Path Internet Project
1233 Locust Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 985-4448
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