Features Classifieds Tri-Cities Calendar Empire Mag. David Crigger A computer lab full of laptops, power outlets and long black cords is probably about the last thing you'd expect to find in a church. The goal of TechRiders, Inc. is to teach people basic computer skills and help them become comfortable with computers and technology, Executive Director Scott Price said. TechRiders was founded in May 2000 by the Colis Warner Foundation, Price said. The foundation was started by Virginia gubernatorial candidate Mark Warner and his wife.
Some people are literally scared to death to touch a computer.
However, there's a twist. Instead of teaching people in existing classrooms or labs, TechRiders brings computers into churches throughout Virginia. It may seem like an odd pairing, but Price said the church setting helps people feel more at ease, especially older citizens who may be scared of taking a class in a more traditional lab setting. People feel comfortable with them and their pastors. TechRiders is taught by college students, who are paid, and other volunteers.