Featured Volunteer: Bruce R. Jaffe

DOROT volunteer since: 2009 
 
How did you get involved with DOROT?
 
I was referred by a friend. I was impressed with the rigorous background check that DOROT does before accepting their volunteers.

What type of volunteer activities do you do?
 
I help seniors with their computer-related needs, from repairs to instruction. I’ve done everything from installing 25 feet of network cable, to straightening out connection problems with Verizon, to installing antivirus software, to teaching seniors how to use Microsoft Word. Although this is my business, I also wanted to volunteer, as a way of giving back to my community.

How would you describe your older friends? What makes them special? And what makes them special to you?

Each one is special. They are often very intelligent people who nevertheless feel a bit lost in the age of the personal computer, the Internet, and email. It’s very satisfying to be able to make an immediate and tangible difference in their lives by helping them use their computer for social and business contact, information, entertainment, and support.

In what ways has your DOROT volunteer experience impacted your life?

It’s been a fascinating and valuable experience. It’s great to work with people who are eager to learn and so grateful for the opportunity to be more connected with the world.

Most memorable volunteer moment:

I noticed that one of my seniors was having trouble reading the keys on her computer’s keyboard. I contacted Lighthouse International (formerly Lighthouse for the Blind) and asked them if they had large-type, adhesive-backed letters and numbers for the keys. They knew exactly what I meant. I bought them on her behalf and installed them. She was simply ecstatic. She said it was like getting a whole new computer, because now she could use it so much more easily. Since then I have installed them for several other vision-impaired people and their response has been equally enthusiastic.

What would you want other volunteers to know about volunteering at DOROT?

That it’s really true what they say—the teacher learns more than the student, and you receive as much or more than you give to others. DOROT offers a great way to help others who really need and appreciate the support. You are often helping someone who has been a great help to many other people in his or her lifetime.