Michelle Puzzo, Executive & Co-Founder of UR Community Cares, practiced physical therapy for 20 years and took her knowledge about the complexity of disability and aging in place independently and created a website to better improve people’s lives. She graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1998 with her BS in Physical Therapy.
Fun Fact #1: I love to play golf.
Fun Fact #2: I just started playing Pickle Ball.
When Betty, a retired nonprofit specialist, first walked into the Tech Center, she was nervous. Having spent much of her life without modern technology, she felt left behind in a world dominated by smartphones, social media, and video calls. But her determination to connect with her out-of-state grandchildren and long-lost friends motivated her to give it a try.
At UR Community Tech Center, we’re looking for compassionate volunteers to assist older adults in learning and using technology. Whether it’s helping them set up a tablet, use video calling apps to chat with family, or showing them how to access telehealth services, your time and skills can make a big difference in their quality of life.
Meet Megan, a dedicated volunteer at the UR Community Cares Tech Center (http://www.urcommunitycares.org). Megan’s path to becoming a volunteer wasn’t easy—she struggles with her speech at times, which made the idea of teaching technology to others seem daunting at first. However, Megan’s story is one of courage, growth, and the power of community.
Meet Megan, a dedicated volunteer at the UR Community Cares Tech Center (http://www.urcommunitycares.org). Megan’s path to becoming a volunteer wasn’t easy—she struggles with her speech at times, which made the idea of teaching technology to others seem daunting at first. However, Megan’s story is one of courage, growth, and the power of community.
Meet Megan, a dedicated volunteer at the UR Community Cares Tech Center (http://www.urcommunitycares.org). Megan’s path to becoming a volunteer wasn’t easy—she struggles with her speech at times, which made the idea of teaching technology to others seem daunting at first. However, Megan’s story is one of courage, growth, and the power of community.
Mrs. Nguyen, a warm and spirited older adult, had always relied on her landline for calls and handwritten letters for communication. However, as time passed, she began to feel increasingly disconnected from the digital world that seemed to be moving at lightning speed. Determined to stay connected with her grandchildren and manage her daily tasks more easily, she decided to take a step out of her comfort zone and learn how to use her smartphone.
At UR Community Cares, our mission extends beyond providing in home support to the aging and disabled in our community through volunteers. We strive to enhance overall well-being, which includes mental and emotional health. One way we do this is through our Tech Center classes. We want to share the inspiring story of Ellen, a participant who has significantly benefited from our mindfulness program.
In our busy lives, it’s easy to focus solely on personal goals and responsibilities. However, dedicating some of your time to volunteer in your community can be incredibly rewarding, not only for those you help but also for yourself. Here are several compelling reasons why investing your time in volunteering is a win-win situation for everyone involved.
In the heart of our community, at the bustling new Tech Center, a new Senior Planet training class was underway. This session, dedicated to mastering Instagram, was filled with eager learners of all ages. Among them was Melvin, an author who had recently embarked on a new journey to learn more social media platforms. He has published books and was excited to share his stories with the world, but he felt overwhelmed by the complexities of social media.
UR Community Cares has partnered with the Manchester Recreation Department to operate their Cycling Without Age Manchester program out of the town’s bike building in Charter Oak Park for the community to enjoy.
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