Digital Divide
Ubuntu Model
For years we refurbished retired desktops in Waterbury by aggregating RAM and imaging with Ubuntu, then giving them away to students and families that needed more access. Although there was some labor involved, I believe it was worth the time and we were sending home 5-10 computers every year (often facilitated by SPED or Home-School Coordinators.) Last spring we retired an entire generation and gave away over 40 older desktops within the community! As-is (but checked for functionality), no warranty or support.
Even when most families have computers at home already, a second computer or a computer that a student can "call their own" (even an older one) can have a lifelong impact. My belief in this process is rooted in my own experience, having received assistance to buy my own computer as a High School student in 1980. it changed my life!
Eric Hall
Technology Integration Specialist
Mount Mansfield Union High School
Chittenden East SU
ReSOURCE
We accept most anything to do with computers. We also will provide free pickups near Burlington and Barre. We refurbish PCs and laptops (Microsoft Registered Refurbisher). We give them away to the seeing impaired, nonprofits, and economically disadvantaged. To help reduce the digital divide, We also sell complete XP systems (CPU, keyboard, mouse, cables and CRT) for $69.95 with MS Office basic.
We offer a yearlong training program teaching computer repair and help desk functions. We hold classes to help them prepare for the A+ exams. Any donations will help support this program.
We are also a registered Vermont E-waste collector. Equipment or parts that we can't use will be sent to a Vermont recycler. So donations will help our communities and our state. As a 501c3 nonprofit we can offer individuals and businesstax receipts for donations.
John Benjamin
IT Manager
ReSOURCE: A Nonprofit Community Enterprise (fka Recycle North)
32 Granite St.
Barre, VT
110 Portland St.
Morrisville, VT
Global Garage Sale
Bring any laptops, smart phones, or digital cameras to Global Garage Sale during the month of November and make extra money with our discounted commission rate! Mention our website special at the time of dropoff to qualify for the discount.
Global Garage Sale
94 West Canal St.#4
Winooski, VT 05404
802-655-4443
email: info@globalgaragesale.net
http://www.globalgaragesale.net/