Tech Pals Provides Free Support to Older Adults So They Can Stay Connected During Pandemic

The Tech Pals technology education nonprofit has transitioned to virtual workshops to support older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, reports the Denver Post . Tech Pals is matching volunteers with seniors who want to learn more about technology, giving them someone to talk to at no charge. Seniors who know little about specific areas of technology — like using Zoom or an iPhone — are paired with a well-versed millennial. The organization is seeking tech-savvy volunteers to instruct seniors by phone and video chat services. "People that don't know how to get access to video chat may feel isolated or bored," said Tech Pals co-founder Leah Baum. "Showing them how to get groceries delivered is something we can do to help them stay safe." Tech Pals also is selling Chromebooks to low-income seniors as upgrades to outdated devices. The nonprofit also partnered with Blaine Matlock, a local three-dimensional-printing hobbyist, to fabricate face shields for at-risk individuals and healthcare workers. Baum said for every three face shields sold, the company will donate one to a local hospital.