Step 3: Finding Recipients
Summary
There are many local opportunities to donate old-but-updated computers for use by seniors, students, and those in need. Here's how to donate in your community.
There’s no shortage of legacy computers — “legacy” is a polite term for out-of-date. Supply is not an issue. The equipment gathering dust in America’s closets, attics, basements, and storage units is uncountable. Not only is supply not an issue, neither is demand. Millions of people simply do not have computers. Some may have cell phones, but try to write a term paper on a cell phone and you’ll instantly see the impracticality of the idea.
How do we get updated, working, legacy computers into the hands of those in need?
We have in place an unlimited number of entities and organizations that will welcome computer donations. Your distribution strategy will depend on how many units you can donate.
Look for existing programs
You may well find that non-profit, tax-exempt, donation programs already exist in your area. Search for “computer donations your location” to see what’s available locally. Group policies differ, so first call and ask if your updated equipment is acceptable.
Concentrate on local donations. This can eliminate shipping costs and other hurdles.
For Households
For a household, the easiest option is to post a notice with a photo on a Facebook neighborhood page. By doing this you will announce the availability of obtainium, a free goody available on a first-come, first-grab basis.
- State what you have available.
- Explain that it has been updated with Chrome OS Flex.
- Have a photo showing a clean, well-lighted, machine that has been turned on.
- As always with online postings, be aware of privacy and safety concerns. Do not post phone numbers or addresses.
- Ask people to send a direct message if interested. This gives you their contact information.
- Once an item has been picked up, take down the posting.
Alternatively, you can ask such prospects as friends, neighbors, local businesses, religious congregations, community groups, schools, and social organizations if they need such equipment or know someone who does. This is also a good way to introduce the recovery concept to others: You have a working machine — evidence of what is possible. Tell people about the landfill issues represented by computers and the health and financial issues associated with the premature disposal of such equipment. Explain that tens of millions of people do not have computers.
Recycling in Bulk
When you have numerous legacy machines the approach can be different. You may, for example, be able to give one to every student in grade-school computer classes, supply them to homeless shelters, give them to youth programs, donate to non-profit thrift stores, distribute through local companies and unions, work with local charities, etc.
To have a successful bulk distribution program, it is necessary to find the public contact with any group or organization you want to approach. This can often be done with a simple cold call. Describe what you want to do and ask who is the right person with whom to speak. If the individual you contact is not the right person, ask who is. You will likely find that most people will be both intrigued and helpful.
You might want to contact local media outlets in the case of a bulk donation. Such donations are not only good for recipients, publicizing them may interest other donors.
Celebrate
Donating usable computers is a social good — plus you’ve likely cleaned out closets and storage units. You may even have a tax deduction — speak with a tax professional for details.
You can be proud of what you’ve done. It’s a decent and honorable thing to help others.