As a Tech-Mate, Alan volunteers his time to work one-on-one with participants in the British Columbia area who are interested in brushing up on their assistive and accessible technology skills. With a background in computer science and working professionally to build accessible technology through his company Bridgeman Accessible, Alan’s able to merge his passion for technology and accessibility with his desire to give back to his local community.
“As a volunteer, I have the opportunity to work with participants and show them everything from how to use a screen reader, to how to use the different accessibility features of different devices like phones or laptops,” Alan explains. “I take the time to talk to them a little bit about different options that are available to them in terms of technology, and how they can integrate it into their lives, help achieve the things that they want to get done.”
As a member of the blind and partially sighted community, Alan expressed that he felt deeply motivated to give back to his community – as a way of showing appreciation for the support he had received from the community. But beyond that desire to give back, Alan explains that he also feels joy knowing that his work as a volunteer can directly impact people in such a meaningful way.
“One of those special moments is when somebody, who may have initially been resistant or scared of technology at first, starts to get excited about what it can do for them. It’s usually after maybe a lesson or two, they're starting to realize that it's something that can really help them in a really big way,” he says.
If Alan’s story inspired you to volunteer, apply today!
Did you know?
While many of our volunteers come with the lived experience of sight loss, you don’t have to be a member of the blind or low vision community to volunteer with us.
Whether you’re interested in supporting an in-person event, volunteering your time and expertise with our Board of Directors, or if you’re simply passionate about one of our programs, there’s truly something for everyone.
To learn more or apply today, visit cnib.ca/volunteer.