PHX Reporter

Three Paradise Valley High School students have demonstrated their compassion for others by dedicating numerous hours to assist senior citizens in their local community. Shubham Kale, Tanmay Dewangan, and Krish Desai, founders of the volunteer community service organization Seniors Empowered in Technology (SET), have been providing technological support to elderly individuals in need.

Tanmay Dewangan, a co-founder of SET, expressed the fulfillment they experience from helping seniors, stating, "The experience is very fulfilling; hearing them say 'thank you' and seeing how much it means to them is extremely fulfilling." Shubham Kale highlighted the additional benefit of connecting with seniors on a personal level while assisting them, saying, "Interacting with seniors and just getting to know them as people is an added benefit of being able to help them with technology."

Residents at Brookdale Desert Ridge, a retirement home where the trio volunteers, have acknowledged the impact of their work. One resident mentioned, "What they're doing makes a difference." SET has provided a range of services to 20 seniors at Brookdale, including fixing Amazon Echo Dots and replacing computer batteries.

PVHS teacher Jon Altmann commended the students, stating, "It is incredible to see our PVHS students donating their own time and making a real difference in the community." The group, which started in October 2023, aims to formalize into a not-for-profit organization to qualify for small grants to cover technology repairs and supplies.

Currently, four PVHS students are volunteering with SET, focusing their efforts on assisting seniors at Brookdale. The students find the most rewarding aspect of their work in the heartfelt gratitude expressed by the seniors they help.

In a heartwarming display of empathy and generosity, these students are not only addressing technological needs but also fostering meaningful connections with the elderly in their community.