About

This project began in September 2009 when Leah Deslauriers, Seniors’ Program Coordinator took a few minutes out of what is always a busy day to catch up with me. “Was there a way to use technology to help seniors keep in touch?”, I wanted to know. Busy, Leah said it sounded good, but talk to her in January 2010. After our meeting, Leah spearheaded the grant application process which was submitted to the New Horizons for Seniors Program. In September 2010, Leah got the news that the grant had been accepted and I got to work writing the material.

Here we are almost at the end of May 2011, halfway through the pilot of Blogging Bubbes & Zaides: Get Connected. The program is meant to show seniors how to get connected with friends and family, using popular programs on the computer.

I want to thank the New Horizons for Seniors Programs (NHSP), sponsored by the Government of Canada, for making the funds available, Leah Deslauriers for her willing ear, many efforts and unflagging enthusiasm.  And feeding me lunch if there was something left. That’s another thing I love about being involved in this community. They look after everyone.

Thanks to Susan Tonn for her time and expertise in making sure we had the equipment we needed and that everything works. She has provided sage advice on all sorts of matters, which we took.

Thanks to volunteers Stan Goldman, Mark White, and my mom, Barbara Freedman for turning the words into knowledge, by teaching this course. Stan also deserves additional thanks for providing the lesson plans. His many years as a teacher benefit us greatly. To Ann May, your comments on the manual were helpful and appreciated.

You all have decades of experience in life and learning. We are very fortunate you are willing to share. I want to thank all the rest of you who have helped along the way, you know who you are.

It’s time already!  Let’s embark on a wonderful journey, with a little talk, a piece toast, a cup tea and a world full of possibilities.
Shelley Freedman