Teaching computer skills, one generation to the other

Basic computer skills are key components of the education that students at the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Office Administration program receive. So it was only fitting that these students, along with their instructor, Melissa Hicks, decided to share their computer knowledge with residents at the Riverview Nursing Home. Office Administration students visited the facility Oct. 23 to teach residents basic computer and cell phone skills. The students taught residents how to save and download photos from smart phones, log into the Internet, create a Facebook page, set up an email account and play games. These basics, which many of us take for granted, can open up a whole new world for senior citizens and help them stay connected with their family and friends.

While the residents got to learn new technology skills and enjoy the companionship of some young people that many residents already consider their adopted grandchildren, the students also gained much from the experience. Perkins students got to practice the computer skills they learned in class, help others, use their teaching and communication skills, and learn some great life lessons by listening to the stories shared by residents.

The day was such a success that it is now a weekly activity for Carl D. Perkins Job Corps and the Riverview Nursing Home.

Muhlenberg Job Corps hosts Senior Citizens Prom

The Muhlenberg Job Corps Center Recreation Department, with the assistance of the health careers students and the Military Club, hosted the 2014 Senior Citizens Prom Oct. 23 at the center. The annual event had outgrown its facility, and Muhlenberg Job Corps was more than happy to host the event. Proceeds from ticket sales for the prom benefited the Pennyrile Allied Community Services (PACS) Hot Delivered Meal program at the Senior Citizens Center. Approximately 115 senior citizens attended the event, which included a catered meal by the Snack Shack, and music was provided by the Benny Pryor Band. Students supported the event by directing traffic and assisting with parking, escorting seniors to their tables, serving the meal. Students also joined in the fun as they line danced with seniors until the end of the night, and asked each senior to dance.

Up in smoke!

Students at the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center got some valuable fire safety training Oct. 16. That’s when CJ Childers of Pike County Emergency Management brought a million-dollar mobile fire trailer to the center for fire safety presentations for students and staff. Students got to go into the unit in groups of eight to see simulations of grease fires, oven fires, and trash can fires in the kitchen and to learn how to use a fire extinguisher and how to react to each of these types of fires. Students also went into a mock bedroom and learned how to best react to a house fire. They experienced first hand smoke coming under the door, the sensation of not being able to see, and feeling the door for heat, and learned that it’s crucial NOT to open the door if it feels hot.

At Perkins Job Corps, safety is the top priority, and training exercises such as this are part of the center’s ongoing focus on safety. Thanks to the Pike County Emergency Management and the Prestonsburg Fire Department for assisting with the presentations.