Date: Fri, 05 Jul 1996 21:36:12 -0700 From: John Zelson Organization: Corporation for National Service To: neighbors-online@libertynet.org Subject: Getting Computers into Communities Hi, I'm writing this note hoping that some folks may want to collaborate or brainstorm on project we've been exploring here at the Corporation for National Service (CNS). (We administer and support volunteer programs, like VISTA, AmeriCorps, etc. You may know that LibertyNet has a couple nice and wonderful VISTAs!) Here's a quick overview: For the past year I've been getting old computer equipment, doing minor repair, and giving them away to folks/agencies involved in our programs -- like Mayors Commission on Literacy, Good Shepherd Mediation, Philadelphia Foodbank, etc. We bought a bunch of 14.4 modems and give those away, too. While there have been occasional setbacks, the computers aren't the best, and it's just plain work... it has been worth the effort. We've given away up to 80 computers and almost as many modems. (Lots of those have gone outside the philly area, too.) While they are old, lately we've been finding, on average, 386s, 4M RAM, and just barely enough hard drive space. In many cases, I was surprised to see that these were much better than what lots of agencies were using. I can get more of these computers than I have the time to fix or place to store. At first, the Philadelphia Foodbank graciously stored computers in their big warehouse, now we are using some space at St. Ritas Church in S. Philly. In short, it's just a small part of my job, but I've been running around, "re-inventing the wheel" at each step... I'd love to work with some folks and do a better job of getting computers "recycled" to places where they have "community impact." I'm writing hoping that some folks on this list could collaborate, or just throw in ideas. Here's what I'm looking: 1. Capable volunteer(s) to help with details. Anyone want to help? 2. Warehouse space. Wouldn't be incredible if we had a huge warehouse to collect lots of computers, repair, and distribute. 3. Info: Is there any such computer recycling happening in philly? Are there any tech-computer schools that I should know about to approach for help fixing the computers? The Dream: ...a system where businesses and regulars folks know that when they upgrade they just take the old computer to our recycling warehouse. A group volunteers, tech students, and national service participants repair equipment with the help of instructors. We could supply nonprofits, literacy sites, etc, with equipment and, ultimately, a connection to Internet. Any ideas? John John Zelson, Technology Outreach Specialist Corporation for National Service zelson@libertynet.org 215-597-2782