Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to facilitate two community AI workshops for seniors through the Neighbourhood Small Grants program. The first session was held in the fall and attracted 25 participants, selling out within 24 hours of registration opening (tickets were free). Building on that interest, I offered a second session in the spring in partnership with the Campbell River Seniors Centre. Registration was not required for the second event, yet the room quickly filled to capacity with 41 participants eager to learn, ask questions, and engage in discussion about a technology that is increasingly shaping our daily lives.
As someone with a strong personal interest in artificial intelligence, my goal was not to present a highly technical lecture, but rather to create a welcoming space where people could ask questions and develop a better understanding of how AI is affecting society and how it can be used in practical, everyday ways. Participants received a handout covering both basic prompt-writing techniques and important security considerations, helping them navigate AI tools safely and confidently. A significant portion of each session was devoted to open discussion, with approximately an hour spent answering questions ranging from simple practical uses to broader concerns about ethics, privacy, employment, and the future of human creativity.
One of the most rewarding aspects of these workshops was the quality of the conversation. Participants were curious, thoughtful, and eager to explore both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI. Following the formal presentation, attendees gathered over coffee and snacks, purchased from the Seniors Centre concession as part of the spring partnership, and continued their discussions with one another. These informal conversations became an important extension of the learning experience.
I believe that informed dialogue plays an important role in helping communities respond thoughtfully to rapid technological change. When people have opportunities to ask questions, share concerns, and learn from one another, they are better equipped to make decisions that reflect their values. Throughout both workshops, we spoke often about the importance of maintaining human connection, critical thinking, and community engagement in an increasingly digital world. As a non-technical presenter with a deep interest in the subject, I was able to translate complex ideas into accessible conversations and help participants feel more confident engaging with a technology that is already influencing many aspects of modern life. The strong attendance and enthusiastic participation demonstrated a clear community appetite for ongoing learning and discussion about artificial intelligence.
