Wayne’s Journey with GetSetUp: Empowering Others Through SCSEP and Easterseals

Wayne’s Journey with GetSetUp: Empowering Others Through SCSEP and Easterseals
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Wayne, based in Southern Idaho, spent decades working in construction before transitioning to a new chapter in his life. After struggling to find younger workers interested in the construction trade, he sought new opportunities through the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) program via Easterseals. That’s when he discovered GetSetUp—a resource that has not only helped him personally but also allowed him to assist others in his community.

Helping Others While Learning New Skills

Now, Wayne is doing his SCSEP paid job training at Easterseals-Goodwill Northern Rocky Mountain. He's also helping other eligible SCSEP participants enroll in GetSetUp, as he looks for a more permanent position at a new job. 

“I’ve been using GetSetUp for four months now and helping others get on to GetSetUp,” he shared. “It’s been really helpful, especially learning about iPhones and iPads, since I have an Android. Now, I can assist others who use Apple devices.”

Wayne sees firsthand how GetSetUp benefits older adults. 

“A lot of participants start with the New Member Orientation, learning how to use Zoom, getting a deeper dive into their devices, and even developing assertiveness,” he explained. “A lot of older adults are ‘yes’ people, always taking care of others, especially grandchildren. These classes help them set boundaries and build confidence.”

Technology, Health, and Financial Wellness

Despite his extensive background in technology, including working with military missile systems and computers since the 1980s, Wayne finds GetSetUp’s tech courses valuable.

 “I like to see how much technology has changed,” he said. “Even with my experience, I’ve learned a lot about online safety, protecting personal information, and making better use of different devices.”

Beyond technology, Wayne has also explored GetSetUp’s health and wellness classes

“I was recently diagnosed with diabetes and high blood pressure,” he shared. “The cooking classes have been a big help, especially learning how to prepare healthy meals that are affordable and last longer. Food prices have skyrocketed, so learning meal planning and budgeting has been really useful.”

He also emphasizes the importance of exercise classes

“Before I got diabetes, I did a job similar to this one—backup administration. I wish I had known about exercises you can do at your desk or during a 15-minute break. Now, I walk a lot, but I’ve looked at some of the fitness classes, and even small daily exercises make a difference.”

Engaging in Hobbies and Staying Active

For Wayne, retirement isn’t about sitting still. 

“When you retire, if you just sit there, you die quickly. We’re used to doing something, and GetSetUp gives us opportunities to explore hobbies,” he said.

As a lifelong artist, Wayne enjoys the platform’s art classes. 

“I did art all through high school, and I’ve done a lot of my own artwork,” he said. “For those of us who aren’t working, it’s great to have something creative to do.”

Wayne also sees GetSetUp as a valuable community resource. 

“Many older adults today primarily interact through their phones, but GetSetUp gives them an opportunity to engage in meaningful ways,” he noted.

Looking Forward: Expanding Learning Opportunities

Wayne appreciates the wide range of classes GetSetUp offers but sees potential for even more. 

“We work with people 55 and older, many on Medicare or with disabilities, and we try to direct them to classes that can really help,” he explained.

Wayne’s journey with GetSetUp has not only helped him grow but has allowed him to support others in learning valuable life skills. 

“I’ve had my own business, helped people expand their ideas, and even wrote a fantasy book,” he said. “Now, I get to help older adults gain confidence with technology, finances, and wellness. GetSetUp has been a great tool for that.”

Through SCSEP via Easterseals, Wayne and many others are finding new opportunities, learning valuable skills, and staying engaged in ways they never expected.

“I’ve never met a stranger—I’ll talk to anyone,” Wayne said with a laugh. “And I love helping people find new ways to learn and grow.”

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