SeniorNet Kāpiti - Volunteer Story Celebration 2024

SeniorNet Kāpiti is a charitable organisation and our tutors are all unpaid volunteers. Tutors have a shared vision of helping members get the most out of their devices and keep up to date with new developments. They understand the frustrations involved in dealing with technology and have the patience to help with practical, easily-understood advice.

Internet access is now a necessity in many day-to-day interactions with banks, insurance companies, government agencies, health providers and local councils. As a result, we are continually updating our courses and workshops to meet changing demands. The rise of AI is an area of particular interest where we aim to keep members informed.

Dealing with technology can be stressful and confronting for many. Enabling members to interact confidently with technology is at the core of the SeniorNet ethos. Having this confidence makes a material contribution to members’ wellbeing and their ability to participate fully in society.

Our tutors devote considerable time to keeping abreast of developments in technology in an increasingly diverse and fast-developing environment. They devise and run courses and produce course materials, exercises and take-home summary notes for students.

Assistant tutors provide backup to lead tutors and assist students with course exercises as well as carrying out the administrative tasks associated with course management (including the tea breaks!).

Our Committee members, many of whom are also tutors, carry out all the (often time-consuming ) administrative requirements associated with an Incorporated Society and advancing the interests of SeniorNet Kāpiti.

Almost any survey of the challenges facing older persons identifies digital technology within the top five. SeniorNet Kapiti's mission is to help people meet those challenges. For the past 27 years, SeniorNet Kāpiti has been serving the Kāpiti Coast as part of a nationwide programme to assist New Zealanders aged 50 and over to keep up with technology.

What makes the team of volunteers special?

SeniorNet Kāpiti has a remarkable team of dedicated tutors who generously volunteer their time to help members and the wider community with technology through a range of courses, workshops, special interest groups and help sessions.