Star Power: Brayden Belsky

Meet Service Star Brayden Belsky, 12. Brayden refurbishes computers for KindWorks, a nonprofit organization in Bethesda, Maryland. The computers then go to people who don’t have one at home. TFK Kid Reporter Axel Foster spoke with Brayden about his efforts.

Where do you volunteer?

KindWorks is a nonprofit group that organizes people to serve in the community. One of the things it does is collect used computers, which are then refurbished by a group of volunteers, like me. Then the group provides these devices at no cost to individuals in need. The program helps improve digital literacy, and reduces the amount of electronics in landfill.

How do you learn how to fix technology?

Mostly, I’m self-taught. I started playing around with old equipment that we had lying around at home. Eventually, we went to thrift stores to buy spare parts. I even found an old computer at a thrift store, which I fixed up so it worked better. Once I did that, I wanted to keep fixing and repairing other computers. I also love watching videos that show people repairing computers or talking about tech in general.

What are your favorite things about your work with the technology in this organization?

I love working with technology because it’s always changing, and there are always new things to learn. The challenge of making things work and testing new components is fun. I also like hearing stories of how the donated computers benefit people that really need them. Some people use them to find jobs or get a degree. Some are kids, which is nice. It’s rewarding that I can use my interests and skills and time to directly help others. And I also enjoy meeting the other KindWorks volunteers and feeling like part of a community.

Have you developed a healthy relationship with technology?

I have to balance my fun computer time, like video games, with my more serious computer time, like researching. And I take a 10- or 15-minute break every hour or so, so I don’t get a headache from staring at screens for too long. I also make sure to balance overall computer time with other activities—like playing outside, reading, and getting together with friends. And I volunteer with other non-technology organizations, including a food pantry and a cat rescue.

Have you faced any challenges as a volunteer?

Sometimes, people underestimate my abilities because of my age. Also, one challenge is making sure you have the latest knowledge about computers. For instance, one of the operating systems recently went out of support, so I had to install a different one. And you have to be careful with the components. One time, a screen cracked when I was trying to clean a computer on the inside.

Communication skills are also really important. I have to coordinate with other volunteers. At first, I was really shy and nervous to talk in front of them, because I’m the youngest volunteer. But now I feel much more comfortable and really enjoy working with them.

What advice do you have for other kids interested in volunteering?

I hope kids see what I’m doing as a good example of how to use their different interests, no matter what they are, to give back to their community.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.