Key Takeaways
- A group of high school students are teaching technology lessons to senior citizens through an organization called Tech Time With Friends.
- The students travel to three metro retirement homes to give lessons on AI, internet security, and similar topics.
- The goal of the organization is to clear up confusion and make senior citizens’ lives easier by providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate technology.
- The organization was founded by Waukee Northwest senior Kalya Kothavale, who was motivated by his experience helping his grandfather with his phone.
- Kothavale was named one of 15 finalists for the Herbert Hoover Uncommon Student Award and was given a $1,500 scholarship for his project.
Introduction to Tech Time With Friends
The world of technology is constantly evolving, and it can be challenging for senior citizens to keep up with the latest developments. However, a group of high school students in Waukee, Iowa, are working to change this through an organization called Tech Time With Friends. On certain Sundays, the students travel to Independence Village, a local retirement home, to give lessons on various technology topics. The organization was founded by Waukee Northwest senior Kalya Kothavale, who realized the need for such a program when he was helping his grandfather with his phone. Kothavale saw how easily he was able to assist his grandfather, and he decided to translate this experience into an organization that could help other senior citizens.
The Founding of Tech Time With Friends
Kothavale’s experience with his grandfather was the catalyst for the founding of Tech Time With Friends. He realized that many senior citizens struggle with technology, and he wanted to do something to help. With the help of his friends, Kothavale started the organization, which has now grown to include nine students who travel to three metro retirement homes to give lessons. The students provide lessons on a variety of topics, including AI, internet security, and mobile apps. The goal of the organization is to provide senior citizens with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate technology and make their lives easier. As Kothavale noted, "Especially in this day and age, it’s becoming more and more important. I think with AI becoming more and more believable, you need to know how to detect AI."
The Lessons and Impact
The lessons provided by Tech Time With Friends are tailored to the needs of the senior citizens, and the students work to clear up any confusion they may have. For example, one of the recent lessons focused on the flashlight and clock mobile apps, which can be confusing for some senior citizens. The students also spend time talking to each of the senior citizens individually to ensure that all of their technology needs are met. As Waukee Northwest senior Zach Losh noted, "We help them with the things that they were confused about. We spend time at the end going and talking to each and every one of them to make sure that all their technology needs are satisfied." The impact of the organization has been significant, and the senior citizens who participate in the lessons have reported a greater confidence in their ability to use technology.
Recognition and Awards
Kothavale’s work with Tech Time With Friends has not gone unnoticed, and he was recently named one of 15 finalists for the Herbert Hoover Uncommon Student Award. The award recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative, and Kothavale was given a $1,500 scholarship for his project. The recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Kothavale and the other students involved in Tech Time With Friends. As Kothavale presented his project to a panel in November, he was able to share the impact of the organization and the difference it has made in the lives of the senior citizens who participate.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The work of Tech Time With Friends is a shining example of the positive impact that young people can have on their communities. By providing technology lessons to senior citizens, the students are helping to bridge the gap between generations and make a real difference in the lives of those they serve. As the organization continues to grow and expand, it is likely that even more senior citizens will be able to benefit from the lessons and support provided by the students. With the recognition and awards that Kothavale has received, it is clear that the organization is making a real difference, and it will be exciting to see how it continues to evolve and grow in the future.