On August 26, the Kent Senior Activity Center welcomed the nonprofit Senior Tech Foundation for a free technology clinic aimed at helping seniors navigate their devices. Founded by Ashlyn Sidhu, the organization pairs high school and college students with older adults for one‑on‑one assistance.
Intergenerational learning in action
Sidhu explained that the program’s goal is more than fixing a broken phone or computer; it seeks to teach seniors the skills they need to solve problems on their own. “We don’t want to just fix the problem,” she said. “We want to give them the education and the digital literacy for them to be able to handle it on their own.”
Participants brought phones, tablets, laptops and other gadgets, receiving help in a “judgment‑free zone” free of technical jargon. “We simplify it,” Sidhu added. “They can just ask questions.”
Benefits for students and seniors
The clinic also provides valuable experience for the student volunteers. “They’re learning leadership skills, they’re learning tech skills and they’re learning how to communicate,” Sidhu noted. The intergenerational model builds relationships that extend beyond the event itself.
Growth and future plans
Originally a for‑profit venture launched just over two years ago, the Senior Tech Foundation transitioned to nonprofit status six months ago to broaden its reach. Sidhu said the aim is to make free tech help available to every senior, regardless of income or location.
In addition to one‑on‑one sessions, the organization offers presentations on topics ranging from artificial intelligence to online scams. Success at the Kent event has spurred plans to expand to more cities across Pierce and King counties. “We’re ramping our events up and partnering with different cities all over the region,” Sidhu said.
City support
Mayor Dana Ralph attended the clinic to demonstrate Kent’s support for the initiative. City spokesperson Tracy Taylor praised the partnership, noting the assistance of local fiber provider Ezee Fiber. “The Senior Tech student volunteers were patient, thoughtful and incredibly attentive,” Taylor said. “We are excited to hold another event like this soon.”
Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.
