Charlie Arnett, a 77-year-old retired computer programmer, is a man of many talents. Nearly six days a month for two or three hours a day he pitches in at The Senior Source as an RSVP volunteer teaching other older adults the basics of operating a computer. His students range from older individuals who have never touched a keyboard to grandparents who use Facebook to keep in touch with their grandkids. But no matter the skill level, Charlie is eager to help them feel comfortable using a wide range of computer basics including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. As an extension of The Senior Source’s Senior Employment Program, which provides job-seeking resources for individuals age 50+, he also teaches skills that can be valuable in job hunting.

Arnett and his wife, Susan, retired in 2004. Soon they found themselves actively volunteering to add fulfillment to their golden years.

“I worked for 30 years as a computer programmer, so I’ve always been around technology,” says Arnett. “But for some people, it’s a complete mystery. That’s one of the joys I get from volunteering, just watching the ‘light bulb moment’ when I can tell the person is really getting the hang of it.”

When not volunteering as a computer teacher, you can find Arnett giving back to his community teaching yoga and other exercise programs for older adults.  He was also a previous volunteer for Contact Crisis Line.

To learn more about The Senior Source’s Senior Employment Program and services it offers, please visit the online calendar of meetings, seminars and workshops or call (214) 823-5700.

About The Senior Source

The Senior Source, a United Way partner agency, has served greater Dallas as the go-to nonprofit for aging services since 1961. The organization assists older adults at all income levels from the most active to the very frail. People turn to The Senior Source for help with job searches, nursing home advocacy, money management, volunteer opportunities and counseling on any aging issue. For more information, contact The Senior Source at 214.823.5700 or visit www.theseniorsource.org.