Tech Event Geared Towards Albuquerque Seniors Wins National Award
The Department of Senior Affairs has been recognized by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) National Institute of Senior Centers with a Programs of Excellence Award for its annual 50+ Senior Tech Fair.
In 2021, Senior Affairs hosted a 50+ Senior Tech Fair following the COVID-19 pandemic, which exacerbated the need for technology skills in order to perform many routine tasks such as making a doctor’s appointment or ordering groceries. The event idea originated from a City of Albuquerque internship collaboration with students from the University of North Carolina’s Morehead-Cain Civic Collaboration Foundation that aimed to increase technology access for seniors in Albuquerque.
“This annual event not only addresses the interest and need to keep older adults informed of growing technology changes, but it invites new members of our community to learn about our Department’s many offerings to stay active and engaged,” said Anna Sanchez, Director of Senior Affairs. “We’re thrilled to have our 50+ Senior Tech Fair recognized by the National Council on Aging.”
More than 250 people attended this year’s 50+ Senior Tech Fair, which featured a variety of technology classes, demonstrations and information booths covering topics ranging from smart phone basics to telehealth and online shopping. Other partners in this effort included nonprofits Adelante’s DiverseIT and Teeniors, which assisted with student volunteers for many of the tech classes.
NCOA’s Programs of Excellence Awards is a peer-reviewed competition that honors outstanding programs offered by senior centers across the country for their impact on health, nutrition, and access to social services; for attracting new participants; creating virtual and in-person programming; and multigenerational engagement.
“This year’s awardees are proof that senior centers continue to be hubs of innovation for creative programs that reach a diverse population of older adults, improving lives and communities,” said Dianne Stone, NCOA’s Associate Director of Network Development and Engagement.