Paul Schmidt has been using computers since he was seven years old, and not just to play games! He wanted to know how they worked on the inside, too. “My Grandpa had one and that’s how my interest first started,” says Paul.
And it has never wavered. Now 30, Paul develops websites, troubleshoots computer issues and offers his expertise to those in need of assistance. With a degree in Computer Science, he has honed his childhood interest into cutting edge skills.
Currently a short-term resident at Bethel Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, and a native of Yonkers, Paul is helping to develop an internal website that will provide information for Bethel staff in a variety of areas, from how to use the mail machine to a quick reference on Bethel’s computer software programs.
Paul approached Jeff Scott, Bethel’s IT Director and offered his services during his Respite stay at the skilled nursing facility. Paul, diagnosed with cerebral palsy, is on a wait list for an apartment in White Plains or New Rochelle via the Front Door program, where he will live on his own, having previously lived with his father.
“It’s fulfilling for me to help the place that’s helping me,” he says. “And it also keeps me from being bored!” Paul said.
Jeff suggested developing the website, as it would be a useful, supplemental tool for staff, who already participate in regularly scheduled classes. The website program would include topics not already covered in Relias, the service Bethel uses to provide its annual, mandated training. Content for the website will be provided by each facility’s administration with input from all departments and will include a myriad of topics and videos.
“The sky is the limit,” says Paul. “I can include whatever is needed on the website.”
Paul will develop pages for each department such as Food Service, Maintenance, and Housekeeping, as well as for each of Bethel’s building and programs. This includes: Bethel Springvale Inn Assisted Living, The Pines Independent Senior Living, Bethel Nursing Home, Bethel Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Adult Day Services and Home Care.
“We can also add information such as the Policy and Procedure Manual, Emergency Disaster Preparedness guidelines and any other such Department of Health required documents,” says Jeff.
Says Paul, “The website is a supplemental tool that will allow staff to access it for an immediate reference or for a more in-depth understanding of a topic, whatever they need.”
Paul spends about two to three hours per day on the project, preparing and designing the site, and is looking forward to working with staff to fill the pages with pertinent, accessible material. To the non-web designer savvy, it seems like a huge task, but not to Paul. It’s second nature to him.
Upon his discharge from Bethel, Paul is planning to officially launch his computer business. As he considers the future, and the tasks at hand, Paul offered the following advice, “No matter what obstacles you face, you can overcome anything.”
