WAVE (Wellness, Activity, Vitality and Engagement)

Project Focus: Bridging the digital divide for older adults.

Target Audience and Location: The 50-year-old or older community that accesses the Friendship Center, a senior community center in the Wayne-Westland area of Michigan.

Vision: A community where older adults engage in meaningful connections so that they experience a fulfilling and healthy life within a supportive community.

Mission: To foster community and vitality for older adults by providing accessible and inclusive social programming and technology skill-building training.

Project Description: Scholar Olivia Farmer and educator Yvette Jonna-Moore created their project to address the digital divide and enhance the social and technological engagement of older adults in the Wayne-Westland area. The project focuses on supporting individuals aged 50 and above who visit their partner organization, The Friendship Center, helping them develop essential technology skills to stay connected with family, friends, and resources.

Through inclusive programming, WAVE aims to improve the wellness and engagement of older adults by bridging gaps in digital literacy. The project offers technology workshops led by high school volunteers on how to use devices, navigate the internet, and access online resources, empowering participants to participate in the digital world with confidence. By fostering community connections and providing skill-building opportunities, WAVE ensures that older adults can live fulfilling, independent lives while feeling supported and connected within their community.

As a student leader, Olivia is proud that “I have interacted with various stakeholders, connecting with the local commission and recreational facilities to publicize our project. And my team, for actively collaborating to build curriculum and establish impactful outreach strategies. They continue to work, even when not prompted, to make this project the best it can be!”