Lake Mac volunteers helping bridge the tech knowledge gap

Published on 13 June 2022

Putting her hand up to help others in her community has opened new doors for volunteer Chrissy Phoong.

Ms Phoong is one of a growing number of ‘digital mentors’ donating their time at Lake Mac Libraries branches, teaching the basics of mobile phones, tablets and computers to people struggling with technology.

“They tend to be older people who need help on everything from: ‘I’ve just got my iPhone, and I don’t know anything about it’, to how to connect multiple devices or use social media better,” Ms Phoong said.

“At the library, I help them with their questions and empower them with self-learning resources.”

Lake Macquarie City Council Lifelong Learning Leader Kirrily Anderson said recruiting was underway for new digital mentor volunteers, as well as volunteers for other cultural facilities across Lake Mac.

“Volunteers help bring our arts, culture, history and literacy to life,” she said.

“Sharing their expertise and passion provides so many benefits in our community, and it can be an enriching endeavour for the volunteers too.”

Such was the case for Ms Phoong, who urged others to get involved.

“Do it, if you can spare the time,” she said.

“It’s a great way to help those in need and also, in this age when we are becoming more isolated from one another, volunteering is a great way to stay connected with our neighbours and our local community.”

Go to lakemac.com.au for more information about volunteering as a digital mentor or in other roles at Council facilities and venues.