Before he became a coach and then a teacher with the McGrath Computer Learning Center, Wayne Rickman, who was named the organization's Volunteer of the Year on Thursday, took classes as a student to learn the software used with his digital camera.
Rickman, a volunteer for 12 years, had taken his new camera, his first digital, on a trip to France and wanted to learn what to do with all the photographs he took.
His friend Will Hills, who has been a volunteer for 16 years, suggested he take a course at the center, which provides adults in Aiken and surrounding communities classes and seminars to improve their skills and knowledge in using personal computers and tablets.
"Having been a consultant, I was reasonably proficient with computers, so they asked me to coach and then to teach," Rickman said.
Rickman has taught many basic courses and also created a Facebook class.
"We are computer users, but we're not so much into Facebook and Instagram and Twitter and other social media that kids are going to," Rickman said. "We're going to have to progress into that area. I would highly recommend to anyone who would like to learn about computers or iPads or tablets to look us up. We provide a real service for the community."
The center is open to all adults, but its services might be especially helpful for seniors, Rickman said.
"I think we add a great deal to the older adults by teaching them how to use a computer so they can get on the Internet and get emails and postings from their grandkids," he said.
Managed by more than 60 volunteers who coach students and teach classes, the Learning Center offers adults a low-cost, friendly introduction to using computers.
"We used to teach only senior citizens, but now we are open to all adults," said Carolyn Heh, the president of the organization. "We teach computer skills from very beginners, someone teaching you how to turn a computer on, to advanced students learning Excel, Word, Windows and other software. We even teach mousing skills."
Basic courses focus on a general introduction to computers, word processing and use of the Internet and email. More advanced courses cover genealogy, graphics, digital photography and photograph enhancement and financial management using a computer.
Prices for courses vary.
Teaching primarily is hands-on, with the student duplicating the actions of the instructor. Coaches, usually two or three per class, provide one-on-one help for each student at his or her computer.
The center is equipped with desktop computers for up to 12 students per class. Open lab time allows registered students to practice their skills or to work on individual projects.
The center holds an open house before each term for students to register for courses, get advice on what classes to take and meet the coaches, instructors and other new students.
Previously affiliated with SeniorNet, a nonprofit organization that specializes in computer and Internet education for older adults, the McGrath Computer Learning Center incorporated in January to offer its own curriculum, courses and training.
"These volunteers started in January with new courses and new manuals for them," Heh said. "Everyone had to learn. It wasn't just our students; the instructors had to learn, too. We're doing very well."
The center is located at USC Aiken and is affiliated with its Office of Continuing Education but is an independent organization operating under this affiliation. More information about the center and course schedules and descriptions is online at www.mcgrathclc.com and www.facebook.com/mcgrathclc.
A native of Aiken, Larry Wood is a general assignment reporter. He joined the Aiken Standard in September 2014.