Why Donate Old Computers to IndependenceFirst?
They empower people with disabilities and promote full inclusion in our community. To help accomplish those goals, IndependenceFirst established a computer recycling program. Here’s what it does:
- Cleans and refurbishes donated personal or business computers
- Makes recycled computers available to people with disabilities
- Distributes 350-400 desktop computers a year
- Meets with recipients to give basic instructions on their “new” computers
- Provides computer training (and guidance with things such as social skills) for many of the recycling program’s volunteers
- Works with vets
Why Recycle At All
Preserves Resources
“When you discard a 5-pound laptop, you are also throwing away the 20,000 pounds of raw materials it took to make it.” ~ TechSoup, Ten Tips for Donating a Computer
- Keeps lead, mercury, zinc and carcinogens from leaking into the water supply and surrounding environment.
“Electronic waste represents 2% of U.S. trash in landfills, but it equals 70% of overall toxic waste. ~ ElectronicHouse.com
- Is Tax-Deductible
- Creates Local Employment
Computer Recycling Program Supervisor Matt Annen
How to Donate to IndependenceFirst
Always a good idea to call first—let them know you’re coming and what you’re donating (no CRTs), verify the hours, etc. Here’s the number for the main office in Milwaukee: (414) 291-7520 (V/TTY).
- Fill out the necessary form.
- Take out the hard drive and destroy it. Or, one of the IndependenceFirst volunteers can do it for you. If you’d like to know what a hard drive looks like and how to remove it yourself, here’s a quick and nicely-done video.
- Drop off at the Milwaukee main office: 540 South 1st Street; or,
- If you have a large donation (businesses frequently do), arrange a time for pick-up.
- Give yourself a shout-out for doing a good deed.
If Not a Computer Donation, How About…
• Making an alternate donation to IndependenceFirst. Here are some suggestions.
- Serving as a volunteer. Get started here.
- You can also support this non-profit organization online (it does make a difference). “Like” their Facebook page or follow them on Twitter.