#99 TRENDING IN Social Justice 🔥

How Mittler Senior Tech Is Bridging the Digital Divide

Social Justice

July 03, 2024

It is a fact that our world is becoming increasingly digital every single day. The rapid speed of technological innovation can be overwhelming. But one young man is determined to change things. Jordan Mittler, the founder of Mittler Senior Technology, is on a mission to empower seniors by teaching them basic technology skills, allowing them to stay in touch with their loved ones and the world around them.

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Meet Jordan Mittler

Jordan Mittler is not your ordinary technical specialist. He's a young, passionate individual who recognized the difficulties the elderly encounter with modern technology early on. Growing up in an age of devices and the internet, he realized how digital proficiency could improve communication and access to information.

However, he noticed his grandparents and other elderly individuals struggling to keep up. This motivated him to make a positive impact.

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A Personalized Learning Approach

Mittler Senior Technology's strategy is straightforward yet extremely effective: patience, adaptation, and interaction. Jordan and his team of high school and college volunteers provide training on everything from fundamental computer and smartphone use to browsing social media, sending emails, and online shopping. The courses are designed to be step-by-step and hands-on, so seniors not only learn but also feel confident in their new abilities.

Course Offerings

Mittler Senior Technology offers a wide range of courses tailored to meet the needs of seniors at different levels of technological proficiency:

  • Computer and Smartphone Basics: This course covers the essentials of Microsoft Word, the Internet, Email, Messages, FaceTime, Mouse & Keyboard Skills, and Online Shopping.
  • Advanced Computer and Smartphones: This course helps seniors understand how to use Zoom, Messages, Social Media, Siri, Online Banking, Health, Wallet, Security, Managing a Computer and Smartphone, and Maps.
  • Top 10 Series: In this course, seniors learn about online banking, photos/social media, computer science, tech in the workforce, transportation, health, online shopping, artificial intelligence, online safety, and wearable technology.
  • Tech Concierge Program: This program offers seniors 24/7 email support from the Mittler Senior Technology team.

Breaking Down Isolation

One of the most significant impacts of Mittler Senior Technology is its ability to reduce isolation among seniors. Learning to use video calling services such as Zoom or Skype enables individuals to communicate with family and friends regardless of distance. Social media skills help them connect with communities, share their experiences, and join support groups.

Email and messaging services provide new avenues for contact, helping people maintain ties and stay informed. For many seniors, the ability to engage with technology means the difference between isolation and connection.

Before joining the classes, many participants felt left behind in a rapidly digitalizing world. Through Mittler Senior Technology, they rediscover the joy of connecting with loved ones, participating in community activities, and accessing vital information.

Creating a Community

Beyond technical expertise, Jordan's workshops foster a sense of community. They are more than just instructional seminars; they are social gatherings where seniors can socialize, discuss their accomplishments, and form new bonds. This sense of community is critical for addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of isolation, offering an extended support network outside the classroom.

These gatherings become a platform for sharing stories, celebrating milestones, and building friendships. The seniors find a safe space where they can express their fears and triumphs related to technology, knowing they are not alone in their journey. The camaraderie developed in these sessions often extends beyond the classroom, fostering long-term relationships and a supportive community network.

Impact and Collaboration

To date, Mittler Senior Technology has empowered over 3,500 seniors across 10 different countries, inspired more than 150 teens to volunteer, and conducted over 450 classes. Additionally, they have partnered with Web-Ready, a sustainable website development nonprofit, to enhance their website's efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint. Through this collaboration, they have successfully planted over 125 trees, demonstrating their commitment to both technological and environmental sustainability.

The partnership with Web-Ready not only improves the functionality and accessibility of their online platform but also underscores their dedication to sustainable practices. By reducing their digital carbon footprint, Mittler Senior Technology sets an example of responsible technology use, aligning their mission with broader environmental goals.

Adapting to Challenges

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the necessity of digital literacy among the elderly. Mittler Senior Technology quickly adapted by shifting classes online, ensuring that their mission continued uninterrupted. This transition also served as a practical demonstration of the skills being taught, proving that it's never too late to learn and adapt. Seniors learned to navigate virtual classrooms, gaining the confidence to participate in the digital world.

The pandemic posed significant challenges, but it also highlighted the resilience and adaptability of both the instructors and the seniors. Moving classes online required rapid adjustments and new teaching methods, but it also expanded the program's reach, allowing seniors from various geographical locations to join and benefit from the classes.

A Model for the Future

Jordan Mittler's work is a shining example of how technology can be harnessed for good. His empathetic and practical approach meets seniors where they are, making learning accessible and enjoyable. His organization does more than just teach technology; it enriches lives by fostering connections and reducing isolation.

The success of Mittler Senior Technology serves as a model for other initiatives aiming to bridge the digital divide. By focusing on personalized learning, community building, and sustainable practices, Jordan's approach offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a positive impact through technology.

Success Stories and Testimonials

Many seniors have shared their success stories and testimonials, highlighting the profound impact of Mittler Senior Technology. One participant, Shelly, expressed, "Before joining Jordan's classes, I was never able to send pictures on my phone, but now I can. I feel much more comfortable with the icons.

I've had many teachers, and Jordan is a natural. I'm much less afraid of the computer now." These personal stories showcase the tangible benefits of the program and inspire others to join.

Looking Forward

As Mittler Senior Technology continues to evolve, Jordan remains committed to broadening its reach. Future plans include developing more advanced courses, creating materials tailored to individual needs, and partnering with senior centers to extend their impact. His unwavering passion and dedication demonstrate the profound impact of using technology responsibly to bridge generational gaps.

Jordan envisions a future where no senior feels left behind due to technological barriers. By continuously expanding the scope of their offerings and fostering collaborations with other organizations, Mittler Senior Technology aims to create a more inclusive and connected world for seniors.

Conclusion

In the 21st century, no one should be left behind. Jordan Mittler and Mittler Senior Technology ensure that seniors remain connected, engaged, and empowered. They are transforming lives and demonstrating the power of technology to bring people together through patience, customized education, and a sense of community.

Through their innovative and compassionate approach, they are not only teaching technology skills but also building a bridge between generations, fostering a sense of belonging, and promoting lifelong learning. Jordan's work is a testament to the positive change that can be achieved when technology is used thoughtfully and inclusively.

Link to Mittler Senior Tech: https://mittlerseniortech.com/

Gabriel Dalton

Writer since Apr, 2024 · 2 published articles

Gabriel Dalton is an Irish-Canadian entrepreneur based in Vancouver, Canada. He stands out in web development with a four-year track record of innovation and commitment to sustainability. Starting with a passion for digital creativity, he quickly focused on eco-friendly practices. He founded Oasis of Change Inc., at the age of 15. Under his leadership, it's become a key player in sustainable web design, contributing to planting nearly 8,000 trees and stopping over 7,000 plastic bottles from reaching the oceans through partnerships like Tree-Nation and Plastic Bank. When Gabriel isn't focused on his businesses, he dedicates his time to language learning. He has studied 20+ languages, achieving a 90% accuracy rate.

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