Senior Planet’s latest initiative is making strides in reaching an underserved community: the Gila River Indian Community.
Digital Connect, a tribal partner, has joined Senior Planet’s national licensing program. This partnership, led by Gila River Telecommunications, Inc., aims to bridge the digital divide in the Gila River Indian Community by providing digital skills trainings and accessible resources. The goal is to cultivate future generations of Indigenous leaders in technology.
The Digital Connect Initiative, established by the board of directors, focuses on promoting digital inclusion, utilizing broadband connectivity for community and economic progress, and embracing modern technology for heritage preservation.
About the Community
The Gila River Indian Community, situated south of Phoenix, Arizona, is home to around 14,000 people, primarily members of the Akimel O’odham and Pee-Posh tribes. An additional number of members reside outside the community, many in the Phoenix area. There are seven districts within the community, each housing a service center where Digital Connect operates.
With the impact of the pandemic, there has been a heightened interest among senior members of the Gila River Indian Community in learning about digital technology. Digital Connect has responded by organizing “bring your own device” sessions at district centers to cater to this need. “There is a significant demand for basic digital skills among the elders,” notes Amanda MacDonald, Program Manager.
Enter Senior Planet
In 2023, MacDonald discovered Senior Planet and its licensing program. Impressed by the online classes and resources, Digital Connect joined the program, and all team members participated in the “train the trainer” course that same year. MacDonald commends the program’s organization and resources, highlighting the structured platform that guides their offerings.
MacDonald’s experience working with older adults has been fulfilling, drawing on her background in education and instructional design. Her interactions with elder learners have been eye-opening, emphasizing the importance of patient, culturally aware teaching methods.
Light Bulb Moments
Senior Planet’s impact is evident in the “light bulb moments” when participants grasp technology concepts. MacDonald recalls a lighthearted session on Emojis and GIFs that sparked joy among the learners as they customized their avatars. She aims to expand online learning opportunities for older members of the community to overcome transportation barriers.
Senior Planet partners with community-based organizations to empower local trainers in delivering their curriculum to older adults. The licensing program is open to public, private, and nonprofit organizations serving older adults.
David Biederman, Communications Specialist for OATS, brings his expertise in nonprofit communications to empower older adults with technology. With a journalism background, David is dedicated to bridging the digital gap in communities.
