SeniorNet began 20 years ago. There is much I want to tell you about it but first I want to let SeniorNet members tell you about SeniorNet in their own words.

I still remember when my friend called to invite me to a SeniorNet class. I didn’t even know how to use my cell phone.

My mother always said that the way to keep from growing old is to learn something new everyday. In SeniorNet, whether working with computers or working with people, I learn something new about the world or about myself everyday.

When instructing, I feel that I am helping other seniors learn something new everyday and thereby stay young.

Personally, I have tried to keep current on technology, and I have simplified my life through the use of the computer for online shopping, online banking, and other online activities.

SeniorNet has opened up a new world for me. I am spending most of my time on the computer. I give lessons to beginners. I have learned how to buy and sell stocks. How to run an investment club, and how to do the work of club treasurer. I also communicate with my bright grandchildren, who think old grandpa is pretty cool. I like being cool.

I have felt so rewarded by the comments and encouragement from the people I have had the privilege to teach. They really appreciate the "seniors teaching seniors" philosophy. I feel that I have something to contribute and enjoy teaching.

SeniorNet keeps me up-to-date with the latest techniques. I have made a lot of friends through SeniorNet. If there is a problem with my computer there is always someone to talk with to remedy the situation.

Because of SeniorNet I am more literate and I want to continue to learn more. I enjoy helping friends and neighbors who have problems. I have taught my husband computer skills. He is enjoying the word processing & internet.

Taking SeniorNet courses has given me a place to go and a reason to get up in the mornings. I've made many good friends here. I've also made friends in the book clubs and discussions on the SeniorNet site. I've reconnected with my writing skills.

SeniorNet has made me so much more confident on the computer, and I was able to secure my job at the library because of it.

The Senior Net Center has changed my life in many ways. I am involved in so many different projects due to the courses I have taken. Graphics and Digital Photography take up a lot of my time. I make all of the greeting cards I send out. I'm also involved in doing a Family Tree, since we have five children and nine grandchildren, this will be nice to pass down to them. It is also such a pleasure to do my bill paying through Quicken. There is not enough time in the day for all I plan on doing. This would not be possible if I did not get started with SeniorNet.

I have developed an interest in several fields. Because of my new found interest in computers and coaching two computer classes per week, I keep rather busy. I have made many new friendships and have become involved in different social activities. For one who never had a hobby, I have become one who does not have enough time to do everything she wants.

Although I no longer have the capability to remember the details of how to accomplish each task, I have an excellent text to which I can refer.

I am richer just for the limited social friendship of the few members I have talked with and/or helped to resolve a problem. I also appreciate the opportunity to learn that many members have the same or similar computer issues, and often provide multiple possibilities for solutions that we might not learn otherwise. - - - - And, nobody's SELLING it to me!!! Although I no longer have the capability to remember the details of how to accomplish each task, I have an excellent text to which I can refer.

Prior to my SeniorNet classes, I had already learned how to send and receive e-mail, instant-message, compose a letter in Microsoft Word and store it in a file and print it, and do a little searching on the Internet. However, it was all hit or miss and I and often meandered around until something worked but, then, couldn't find exactly how I had gotten there. Now, it is much easier to maneuver around on the computer and I am using it much more to do club reports, make class booklets for my Sunday School class, etc. The coaching has increased my confidence.

I am much more confident in my communications with friends, family, and associates. I feel most gratified by sharing my PC skills with others. I thoroughly enjoy the social part of the organization. I enjoy the people.

In the most profound way. I'm starting life all over again as I turn 60. My entire family has noted a vast change in my energy level and attitude about life in general. I am now "working" for fun and not keeping Wall Street happy. I have been blessed with great fellow volunteers who share my passion to reach out. Now, when it's "SeniorNet Day" I can't wait to see and interact with all the seniors, including the SeniorNet students, coaches, instructors as well as the other seniors attending the Senior Center. I now feel like I'm really making a contribution to our society.

I still remember when my friend called to invite me to a SeniorNet class. I didn’t even know how to use my cell phone.

But now I use my cell phone, email, and a digital camera all the time!