Responsibility Blog

Fun and Games at AARP in Las Vegas

By Jeff Kramer | October 30, 2009

I attended AARP’s National Convention that was held in Las Vegas, Nevada from October 21-24.

To be honest, the 30,000 plus attendees are there to see speakers and events related to aging, stroll the massive exhibit hall and pick up whatever “freebies” are being given out. It is not normally a venue to discuss public policy.

However, aided by the large presence of Verizon Wireless in the Exhibit Hall we were able to weave a little bit of education into the fun and games. So while thousands of folks asked wireless questions, tested our products and listened to a “Wireless 101” tutorial, we were also able to discuss Internet Safety, an issue that affects anyone of any age that goes online.

With Verizon’s “Internet Safety Tips for Seniors for Dummies” as our guide we spent time talking candidly about the Internet and its wonderful benefits while counseling them on some things to keep in mind to remain safe in that space. Additionally, we were able to touch on the importance of broadband and how it can truly enhance their lives.

It was a fun and rewarding experience that gave us the opportunity to talk one-on-one with a very important part of our customer base. I know that our Verizon team learned much from that interaction and I hope the conference goers not only learned a few things, but had a good time too.

I’m looking forward to next year’s conference in Orlando. In the meantime, if you or someone you know is venturing onto the Internet, check out these sites that will help make it a positive and rewarding experience: LookBothWays and the Safe Internet Alliance.