Research Shows Volunteering Makes Us Happier - April 2021

RESEARCH SHOWS VOLUNTEERING MAKES US HAPPIER!

This month, Community Tech Network is celebrating National Volunteer Month. CTN’s volunteers play a crucial role in our community. They are the direct connection to our learners — serving as digital coaches, helpful problem-solvers, and virtual companions to isolated seniors. Yet for many volunteers, what begins as a way to “give back” becomes a gift itself.

Did you know that volunteering can increase happiness over time? According to a 2020 study in the Journal of Happiness Studies, volunteering can even contribute to better mental health. Among the many benefits of volunteer work are social connection, leadership skills, and a sense of community. In the case of CTN’s Home Connect program, volunteers are building fulfilling and meaningful relationships across generations. Read how volunteering could increase your quality of life, as well as the lives of others.

CONGRESS PASSES THE EMERGENCY BROADBAND BENEFIT PROGRAM

In response to our current connectivity crisis, the Federal Communications Commission established the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program. This new program uses funds allocated in the COVID Relief Bill to help struggling households access the internet throughout the pandemic. While we are excited to see Congress address and allocate resources towards digital equity, the EBB program does not address the full scope of the problem. Read CTN’s response on the blog.

COMMUNITY TECH NETWORK SPOTLIGHT

LEARNER: MARIA DEL ROCIO VACAS

A native of Ecuador and former nurse, Maria initially felt hesitant about the Home Connect program. She had never used a tablet or computer before, and the idea of technology was intimidating.

Read how Maria’s life has changed since taking a leap of faith and learning to use the internet.

VOLUNTEER: LAUREN W.

“Do good for others, and it may come back in unexpected ways.” This cliche proved true for volunteer digital coach Lauren Woolley.

Read how the Home Connect program has changed both Lauren and her learner’s lives for the better.

EMPLOYEE: CARLOS SIVIRA FALCON

“It is very fulfilling to help out my community,” says CTN’s bilingual digital literacy instructor Carlos. “That’s why I do it. I like doing something that doesn’t necessarily feel like a job. I enjoy talking to these people. I like making sure that they feel comfortable and safe online.”

Check out Carlos’s journey with CTN!

CTN IN THE NEWS

Kami Griffiths Hosts Webinar: Connecting the Unconnected
Recently, CTN’s co-founder and executive director Kami Griffiths presented a free webinar on how to get our communities online during the pandemic and beyond.