Before Bob Barnwell retired 11 years ago, his use of technology was limited to what was required for success in his job as a high-tech inside salesperson in the Bay Area. Even with defense contractors and the U.S. military as clients, he describes himself as “not being too computer literate.”
With his new free time, Bob wanted to learn more about the digital world and sought out the services of a fledgling nonprofit, then known as Community Technology Network. Kami Griffiths, CTN’s executive director and co-founder, was his trainer. Their initial work together introduced Bob to a new world of skills and new volunteer opportunities, leading to a close friendship which continues today.
His new volunteer career included successful nonprofit fundraising benefiting several nonprofits, including CTN. After a few years, Bob needed to return to work to supplement his income, but now needed a resume that captured and highlighted these new fundraising successes. Once again, CTN was there to assist. It didn’t take long for him to land not one, but two part-time positions!
Bob is now a small business specialist for Livable City’s Sunday Streets program. Eleven months of the year, Sunday Streets organizes a monthly “car-free” street that is opened for health, fun, and community connections in a different neighborhood. Bob works with small businesses in the area, helping them to contribute and participate in a meaningful way. His other job as a community outreach specialist with SF Water finds him in various public venues educating residents about its services and programs.
Bob is pleased that he was asked to continue to work from home during the COVID-19 crisis, validating the importance of his work and the value of his contribution to the community. Bob attributes his continued successes to CTN, saying, “CTN has been an important part of my life.”
CTN is proud of Bob’s accomplishments both as one of its volunteers and as a recipient of its programing. Kami summarizes Bob’s story by saying, “Bob is one of the most resilient people I know. When faced with a new technical challenge, he finds the help he needs to figure it out.”
Even amidst the COVID-19 crisis, CTN continues to connect our seniors through our newest initiative, Home Connect. Please consider a financial donation to this program so we can connect additional seniors during the existing health crisis. Please visit www.communitytechnetwork.org/ to learn more and make a contribution.
