Archive for the ‘computers’ Category

Deed 28: Calling for a Cause

Posted: August 11, 2013 in Children, computers, donations, school
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I have been in sales for the past 8 years, so making phone calls is something that comes natural to me.  You may be asking..”Why is that important and what does it have to do with a deed?”  Great question!  I signed up to help make phone calls for an organization called Fresh Air Funds.  The amazing organization sends children from low income neighborhoods in NYC on free vacations/camps throughout the country. For some children, this is the first opportunity they have to leave the city.IMG957016

I arrived at the Fresh Air Fund’s office in NYC after a day of work.  There were 6 other volunteers that joined the program that night.  I was given a list of about 60 names, a script, and a bit of coaching from the team leader.  Soon after, I sat down and started calling!  It was my job to call the parents of children to remind them about the date, time, and place they needed to drop their children off for a sleep away camp.  I spent about 2 hours on the phone, going through the list and providing important details to the parents.

This particular deed may not have been the most hands on or involved deed, but it was still quite important.  The organization stays afloat because of volunteers and donations.  It does not receive any government funding.  If you would like to donate so you can help provide a great experience for a child, you can do so at the link below (I did!).

Donate Here!

Deed 27: Resume Prep in NYC

Posted: August 4, 2013 in computers, technology, volunteer
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resume

Resume Prep with the Life Center is a program that was developed to empower unemployed or underemployed adults to secure jobs and transition into permanent housing.  I signed up for the program through New York Cares. Each volunteer is paired with a resident of the facility and asked to assist with preparation of a resume.

I was paired with a woman from outside this country.  She had limited job experience and did not have a resume completed.  When I asked her what kind of job she was looking for, she stated “I will work anywhere.  Anything I can do to help support my son.”   I helped her put together a resume and gave her interview tips.  I may not be an expert in this area, but I feel as though I was able to help a great deal!

Deed 10: Teaching Computer Basics

Posted: February 20, 2013 in computers, technology
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happy_computer_parch_excelI have been around computers all my life dating back to the days of MS DOS and Windows 3.1.  Utilizing and educating myself on technology is something that has always come natural to me.  When I saw a program that would allow me to transfer these skills to others, I jumped at the opportunity.

The program I volunteered for was called “Computer Basics at Chelsea Recreation Center”.  The purpose of the program is to develop computer knowledge of adults and seniors through the Microsoft suite and internet browsing.  I was paired with an admirable woman who was looking to learn more about Microsoft Excel.

The woman had a limited exposure to excel and the Microsoft Suite in general.  She was looking to improve her skills to make her more attractive to employers after she was laid off after 29 years of service at a law firm in New York City.  We started with the basics and within a few hours she was creating spreadsheets with formulas and had a good grasp on the program in general.

While I certainly helped her, she also unknowingly reminded me of a valuable lesson:  No matter where you are in life or how knowledgeable you are, there is always room to improve yourself and provide value to others.