Hello everyone,
Each year seems to go by quicker than the rest, life is short, and change can be rapid. In many ways, 2023 was the year of Artificial Intelligence (AI). While AI has existed in various forms for decades, individuals and industries have recently accepted and advanced AI in ways that have been both thrilling and terrifying. AI is changing how teens and young adults learn, work, and express themselves.
Organizations around the world have gradually been coming to terms with the reality that, for better or worse, AI is here to stay. So what does that mean for us at TeenHelp? Will our human volunteers eventually become obsolete if members of our community can go elsewhere to get the answers they’re looking for? Will our supportive services be moderated by bots and our publications authored by ChatGPT in the near future?
Technology can bring us powerful tools, but tools have limitations. A tool can’t foster community in the ways that our peer mentors can. A tool won’t take the time to connect with you on a deeper level, respond with empathy, or consider how your needs are unique in comparison to the billions of people who exist at this point in time. A tool may provide quick answers, but information alone doesn’t lead to meaningful change. A tool may improve efficiency, but that doesn’t equate to increased positivity in our lives.
It is our connection with others that separates us. As humans we have the unique ability to understand and affect others, and through our actions and choices we can bring positivity to those around us. Whether that's spreading some holiday cheer, small acts of kindness to make others smile or our family traditions which stand the test of time, there are many ways our humanity can bring happiness to ourselves and others. At this time of the year as we reflect back on the changes in our lives, take the time to build, honour and celebrate your human connection to others.
As 2023 draws to a close, I invite you to consider what 2024 may bring and how you want to make room in your life for new technology and new relationships. TeenHelp is a result of both technology and relationships coming together. Without technology, we can’t create opportunities for teens to support one another. Without relationships, we can’t dream of making a lasting impact on the wellbeing of our members. The two are intertwined, and that’s a good thing! We invite you to celebrate the power of human connection and what it brings to your lives and communities.
Happy holidays from your human volunteers at TeenHelp!
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