Changemakers: Organization empowers older adults through digital literacy classes
News
The Oak Hill Collaborative has been creating positive change for years, by helping older adults build digital skills that can open doors to opportunity, confidence, and connection.
YOUNGSTOWN –
For many people, technology comes naturally. For others, especially older adults, it can feel overwhelming and out of reach.
At Oak Hill Collaborative in Youngstown, the focus is on changing that. The non-profit has been helping older adults build digital literacy since 2017, offering a welcoming space to learn without pressure or judgment.
“We’re just teaching people who don’t know how to use a computer how to navigate better, and that’s what we do,” said Director, Pat Kerrigan.
Oak Hill Collaborative offers about 80 free, hands-on classes. The topics range from basic computer navigation to Excel and other practical software skills.
The classes are held at the organization’s location on Oak Hill Avenue and are designed to address both the economic and emotional barriers that can come with learning new technology. Kerrigan said fear is often one of the biggest obstacles.
“They’re [afraid] they’re going to break something or that someone’s going to get their information. Different fears factor into how people react to technology,” Kerrigan said.
To help participants continue practicing what they learn, those who complete eight classes earn a refurbished laptop. The goal is to ensure they have ongoing access to the tools and skills they worked hard to build.
Kerrigan said the program goes beyond teaching software. It is about confidence, independence, community, and creating positive change in the Valley.
“Whether it be technology or anything else, when you can touch somebody’s lives like that, it gets to me,” Kerrigan said. “I get a little teary about it sometimes.”
If you know of someone who is making a positive change in the Shenango or Mahoning Valleys, send an email to LHuff@wfmj.com, and they could be 21 News’ next Changemaker.