In an effort to ensure that Atlanta’s senior population is included in virtual meetings, NPU University is hosting a virtual class for our senior residents this Thursday, April 23rd at 10:30 a.m. The meeting will be easily accessible for all residents with or without internet access, including those who have landline phones, classic flip phones, smart phones, laptops, tablets or computers. Those who do not have internet access can join by calling (646) 558-8656, access code: 399 797 8529# from any phone. Those who have internet access can join in by using this link: https://zoom.us/j/3997978529 (Meeting ID: 399 797 8529).
Our goal is to make the concept of virtual meetings less intimidating for seniors, dispel the myths about virtual meetings, and show seniors how they can stay connected to their communities and participate in the civic process while sheltering in place. We will explain to seniors how virtual meetings work, and take the time to answer their questions.
While some have expressed concern that virtual meetings exclude seniors, we believe meeting virtually is actually more inclusive, since residents who would not otherwise have an opportunity to attend neighborhood or NPU meetings can now participate without leaving their homes. This means that seniors who don’t like to go out after dark, seniors without transportation, seniors who are homebound or have difficulty getting around, or even seniors who care for grandchildren can now attend NPU and neighborhood association meetings and stay connected to their communities. Since nearly all seniors have telephones, virtual meetings give NPUs the opportunity to reach more seniors than ever before. It isn’t the same as meeting in person, but it can get us through the stay-at-home orders until we can come together again. If you know anyone who would benefit from this meeting, please share this information with them. For more information on NPU University, please view the catalog or visit our website at npuatlanta.org/npuucatalog. For general updates, follow us on Facebook @npuatlanta.
