Local Teen Bridges Digital Divide, Empowers Seniors Against Scams

A compassionate high school student in Huntsville is dedicating his after-school hours to help senior citizens navigate the complexities of modern technology and safeguard themselves from online fraud. Harris Dunham, a senior at the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering, recognized a critical need within his community and took proactive steps to address it.

Key Takeaways

• Harris Dunham, a senior at the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering, volunteers his time to teach seniors technology skills and scam prevention.
• His motivation stems from a personal experience where his grandparents lost money to a scam.
• Dunham’s sessions cover a range of topics, including password security, internet searches, and identifying fraudulent calls.
• The program is run without any academic credit or payment, driven purely by a desire to help.

A Personal Mission

Harris Dunham’s initiative was sparked by a distressing incident involving his own grandparents, who fell victim to a scam that resulted in significant financial loss. This experience ignited a passion in him to prevent others from enduring similar hardships. He began volunteering weekly at a local senior living facility, offering his expertise to residents.

Empowering Through Education

Dunham’s sessions are designed to be hands-on and tailored to the specific needs of the seniors. He patiently guides them through various technological challenges, from understanding their smartphones to securing their online accounts. "Every week I would come in, and I would help these senior citizens with their technology, whether it be questions or I teach them something new," Dunham explained.

He emphasizes the importance of recognizing potential threats, noting that many seniors are more trusting of unsolicited calls than younger generations might be. "If someone randomly called me, I wouldn’t answer. I know that’s not the case for people who are a little older, they’re like: ‘oh this might be my friend, I might not have their number yet.’"

Comprehensive Skill-Building

The curriculum extends beyond just scam prevention. Dunham also covers essential digital literacy skills such as operating cameras, enhancing password security, and conducting effective internet searches. Residents like Peg Skrenes have found his guidance invaluable. "If it were just a phone, which my first one was, you know, I’d have no problems with that. He really was great about it, he’d say well what do you need? What do you need help with?" Skrenes shared.

Dunham expressed his appreciation for the seniors’ eagerness to learn. "A lot of them were just so receptive. I love how they’re willing to learn as well," he said. The sentiment is mutual, with Skrenes adding, "I’m just glad to see this generation that’s willing to work with others to help them."

A Generous Contribution

Dunham’s commitment to this cause is entirely voluntary, with no expectation of payment or academic credit. His dedication highlights a powerful example of intergenerational connection and community service, demonstrating how young people can make a significant positive impact on the lives of others.

Sources

• Huntsville teen teaches seniors about technology and scam prevention, WAFF.

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