Volunteer Reflections on Do Space Anniversary

In honor of our first anniversary, we asked some of our regular volunteers to look back on their year of service and time with Do Space. This reflection comes from Dawn who volunteers as an Explorer helping make our programs a success. If you are interested in learning about volunteer opportunities, please CLICK HERE. 

When Do Space opened, it seemed like the perfect volunteer opportunity for this retired librarian: I could become more competent with technology while providing my community with customer service. I began at the help desk as a Technology Sidekick, but soon found a more suitable position after staff asked if I could assist in Cyber Seniors, a weekly session where seniors can learn more about computing, mobile phones, and tablets. I agreed and have returned almost every Wednesday morning at nine o’clock. My job is to answer questions and demonstrate skills so that seniors feel more comfortable and productive with technology. They often explain, “My son/daughter gave me this device, but didn’t show me how to use it.” I’ve shown people how to text their grandkids, organize photos, browse websites related to hobbies, download the Uber app, find a bus schedule, and venture into Facebook.

Volunteering at Do Space is fun and rewarding. I meet interesting patrons and volunteers with diverse backgrounds and skills. As I help people feel more comfortable with their tech devices, I become more adept with technology. Seeing trepidation turn into a smile of satisfaction or a high-five makes me feel useful. It’s a win-win.

I love many things about Do Space. I believe in Do Space’s mission of providing free technology and assistance to anyone in our community. I value the collaborative spirit and knowledge of the other volunteers: if I don’t know the answer–and Google can’t rescue me–I ask another volunteer. The collective expertise of our volunteers is wide-ranging, and our seniors are so appreciative of it. They proclaim, “This is such a great service! I can’t believe this is free! I’m so glad I came!” And my favorite, “I’ll be back next week.”