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Apr 18

Frequently Asked Questions About Volunteering with Community Tech Network

  • April 18, 2023
  • General, Volunteer

Are you interested in becoming a volunteer for Community Tech Network? Our volunteers transform lives every day by teaching older adults how to use technology.

However, you probably want to learn more about the program before signing up. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ).

Who is eligible to volunteer?

Anyone over the age of 18 is eligible to volunteer. Our volunteers range in age from 18 to 65+.

No particular educational background or experience in teaching is required. Volunteers must have at least intermediate-level technology skills.

Remote volunteers must be U.S. residents. This does not apply to in-person volunteers.

What is the time commitment? 

Just one hour per week! We’re very flexible, and you can create your own schedule.

What are the responsibilities of in-person volunteers? 

In-person volunteers typically host drop-in hours and offer tech support at our partner and community centers. We work with you to figure out the best placement for you based on your location and schedule.

What are the responsibilities of virtual volunteers? 

Remote volunteers can become digital coaches. They’ll be paired with an older adult and meet weekly over Zoom for one to three months (depending on the learner’s needs).

These learners have already acquired basic technology skills through CTN’s Home Connect program and are looking for specialized technological support based on their interests. For example, some folks might want to learn how to use social media to keep in touch with their family and friends. Others might be looking to learn how to access certain educational or entertainment resources online. Digital coaches adapt their lessons based on the learner’s interests.

Does CTN offer school credit for volunteering?

Yes! Let us know what your school or organization’s requirements are and we will be happy to work with you.

Will I be able to connect with other volunteers? 

Yes! By becoming a CTN volunteer, you’ll join a community of other volunteers. The volunteers support each other and often become good friends. In fact, we often host monthly (virtual) meetups for all of our volunteers! Volunteering with CTN will connect you with like-minded people.

How will I know what technology skills to teach?

Once you’ve been approved to volunteer, our staff will walk you through our digital training resources, including sample curricula. However, there are no set topics that you must teach. Your role as a volunteer is to address the needs of the learners, which will vary.

How do I apply? 

The steps for becoming a CTN volunteer are as follows:

  1. Submit a volunteer application. The form is very simple and shouldn’t take you long to fill out.
  2. Complete online training. You’ll learn tips for working with older adults, and you’ll get trained to recognize and report elder abuse. You must also complete information security training. We’ll email you the links.
  3. Participate in a phone interview with our volunteer coordinator.
  4. Consent to a background check.

Check out this blog post to read more about the process.

How soon can I start volunteering after I submit my application? 

Once we receive your application, you can sometimes begin volunteering within just two weeks!

Still have questions? Reach out to CTN’s volunteer coordinator, Josh Chan, at josh@communitytechnetwork.org to learn more.

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