Could you assist people with their lifelong learning goals in a small computer lab?
Currently, CompuPlace clients with disabilities attend by appointment Tuesdays through Thursdays between 10 AM and 4 PM. Most clients have cognitive, intellectual, communication, or developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum, Down syndrome, or traumatic brain injury. Some have dexterity-related disabilities that make it harder to use a computer.
The CompuPlace lab is currently unused on Mondays and Fridays. In order not to waste this resource, and in the spirit of inclusion, we seek to expand our services beyond people with disabilities to people who have been left behind in the age of information, technology, and the internet. In addition to people with disabilities, people with low incomes, seniors, and rural adults are too often on the wrong side of a gaping digital divide. We seek a reliable team of volunteers to staff the lab for drop-in availability to Linn County residents with learning goals. Can you help?
At CompuPlace, we start wherever the student is. It is a place where abilities are identified and harnessed, where it is safe to guess, where learning is supported, effort is applauded, and success celebrated with gusto. This method is equally appropriate for learners with and without disabilities.
CompuPlace clients are often working on communication, spelling and reading, math and money, problem solving, professional behavior, and general computer skills. Some clients attend alone, some with group home house mates, and some in small and large groups. Many clients play games or surf the web in order to learn the skills they need to improve their lives.
The CompuPlace way encourages people to direct their own lifelong learning. There is dignity in learning, and there is empowerment in self-directed continuing education. There is so much to know, so much to “Ask Google,” and so much yet to discover, both collectively and individually.
If there are specific questions you have, please ask. If this sounds like a good fit for you, please let us know. If you are interested, please schedule a tour.
