Learning and Improving Your Digital Skills Through TPF's Support

Unique opportunities are one of the key benefits of the work I do with The Patterson Foundation (TPF). I enjoy a good challenge, but I also value success—a combination that flourishes within this organization.

About a year ago, an email was sent to all TPFers seeking Tech Coaches for the newly established Tech Excellence initiative. This program was created by The Patterson Foundation to offer opportunities for TPFers to enhance their digital skills and receive ongoing support, aligning with TPF's collaborative approach to philanthropy. Intrigued by the challenge, I decided to step forward.

My journey began in the "tech world" during my college and early professional career (yes, I learned Pascal I and II). Although I eventually moved away from this field, I knew I still had the capacity to teach and learn in this area. While I felt a bit rusty, I knew I was capable. Apprehensive yet curious, I joined the Tech Excellence coaching team—a group of five TPFers, each bringing unique skills and abilities to the table.

The goal of these tech classes is to create a welcoming and patient environment for everyone involved. Recognizing that everyone has different levels of tech proficiency, TPF aimed to foster a nurturing and inquisitive space where all participants could support each other and enhance their technology skills while building deeper relationships.

As I prepared to teach my first class, I kept TPF's Five Cs—Caring, Connecting, Collaborating, Contributing, and Creating close to heart. Though I wasn't an expert, I emphasized that our class would be a collaborative experience where we could all learn from each other. In that moment, I was both a teacher and a student.

I also participated in classes to improve areas where I needed more knowledge. I discovered through teaching and attending Tech Excellence classes that this initiative is a true team effort. Everyone in the class is eager to learn something new or share a suggestion others might not have considered. In typical TPF fashion, it's all about collaboration and mutual growth.

I invite you to join me or any of my fellow Tech Excellence teammates in a class to strengthen your digital literacy and skills. Together, we'll explore new and better ways to learn in a patient and nurturing environment. Plus, it's a fantastic opportunity to be a lifelong learner. Did I mention it's also fun and empowering?!