The Saint Theodore’s Literacy Committee partnered with Literacy Rochester in 2022 to help some of their parishioners learn how to read. That’s when Stephen learned about the digital literacy program at Literacy Rochester. Stephen instantly knew that digital literacy skills were beneficial to the community. So, he joined the Digital Literacy program as a volunteer in December of 2022. By the beginning of the next year, Stephen was leading the digital literacy group hosted at St Theodore’s and providing digital assistance to the community. St Theodore’s Catholic Parish is a public location that anyone can stop by on the first Monday of the month to meet with Stephen for any digital questions.
To Stephen, digital literacy means being able to know the basic functions of technology, navigating the internet, and having an idea of what’s real and what’s not while online. Originally, Stephen was worried that he wouldn’t be able to assist customers. He was unsure of his own expertise of digital knowledge, but soon realized that he still could help others without feeling pressured to know everything. Stephen loves being a digital volunteer and gets satisfaction from knowing he is helping others achieve their goals. He has helped people with tasks including email navigation and techniques and how to maintain technological devices.
Stephen’s advice to prospective volunteers “Take a deep breath and dive in, because you can do it.”
Stephen’s religion is very near to his heart. He wants to help and guide others as the lord has helped and guided him over the years. His favorite scripture is: The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me’ Matthew 25:40. Volunteering with Digital Literacy has given Stephen the ability to help others with their digital needs.
When Stephen is not busy teaching at the church or at Bryant and Straton he enjoys gardening, crafting, or spending time with his wife of 42 years. He makes handmade cards, journals, memo pads, and prayer cards. You might spot him at a local craft show to share his work and to fund future projects.
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