Volunteer for the Nortel LearnIT Program

Hey Dreamers,

Hope those of you who attended the Dream Celebrations had got the pulse of different programs @ Dream A Dream. Those who couldn't there is always a window of opportunity to know what's happening @ D-A-D. I believe the response to the volunteer appeal mail for the Nortel IT Program has been disheartening. So i thought why not share few experiences on the Dream Computer program and rope in some more volunteers for the program. I have been Part of this program over the last couple of years and its been a great feeling working with the children and the volunteers. Recently when i visited Ananya , 2 kids who passed the "Word Processing" exam walked up to me and said "Uncle its only you who made pass the exam through the computer program u teached us" . Though grammatically the sentence might be wrong but i got the essence and was elated that my efforts were recognized by none other than the children themselves. Though want to share some more thoughts which are more or less have been reflected in the experiences shared by our friends who contributed to the program in the last academic year......

Vikram Balakrishna Says –"There were really moments that moved me when the children took a big leap and expressed their desire to stay up and gain the complete knowledge of what we had planned for during the following weeks. Also, I was amazed by the inquisitive nature of so many children which led them to ask us many advanced concepts for which we wouldn't be prepared and had to handle on the fly. I am sure that this is just a beginning and as we take it a step further as we go along and can really bring about a change."

Vishal Augustine says "I always wanted to contribute non-monetarily for a social cause. Getting involved in the DaD Computer Programme fulfilled my wish. The cheers that I could bring in the kids' faces rewarded me more than I had expected. When I learn that my activity did help the kids in many ways, a smile of satisfaction spreads on my face. With this activity I have grown as a more mature person. And that came as a bonus that I had not thought of."

Bankim Says "I had an experience of teaching engineers but getting into teaching the children is entirely different feeling and an exciting job, during training with Dr. Rao and Dr.Shashi I came to know about the kid's behavior, understanding and teaching them computer in a very informal manner.I never had the realm that these kids whom we thought are not into mainstream can do the same things if given a chance. I understand that they possess tremendous potential and intellectuals in them. Just need an eye to understand there talent and hands to help them to bring them into the society where they could be able to find there own destiny with the qualities which we could provide them. We not only trying to make them self sufficient but also provide them a confidence that they are not demoted part of society and they could live the same normal and prestigious life as the privilege guys have. It's more than an institute and teaching where you get good friends, meets great people and understanding your inner call towards your liability to society. Personally, it makes me more sensitive towards the underprivileged kids.

Tanu Says "My experience has been more about learning than teaching. Maybe, I have taught someone about how to switch on/off a computer but from the kids I learnt the art of acceptance, language no bar which I don't think is a part of the curriculum of any school. Being not familiar with kannada was my biggest challenge only until I had met the young minds. Sharing or editing a document is just a click but teaching your team member to move the mouse as easily, not moving to the next topic unless your team member is comfortable is team work. Inserting an image on a word document is one time activity but learning how to do it forever is a skill, I feel great to be a part of such a team who not only has the independence to design their session but also gives desired attention to details and ensures that the target is met. My most memorable day so far was to watch the children make presentations of their projects which they had made using all possible skills they learnt so far. In fact it leaves me speechless even today."

Aawardhan - "Computer program has always been fun, that's why any one who comes once becomes a regular volunteer. Core team sees to that every volunteer is given enough responsibility and importance, which is one of the key features to the success of the program. I look forward to participate in more computer programs to come. Result from "Ananya" shows that we are decent teachers and we are on the right track."

My personal appeal to all of you would be to sign up for the "Nortel Learn IT Program" and believe me it will be one of those rare experiences of your life.

Waiting for More Dreamers to signup for the program.

Yours
Vijay Kumar Yenne
Volunteer Coordinator