Environmental Protection

Computer Reuse

Computer Reuse | In the News | Computers For Kids

Computers for Schools Logo

The Computers for Schools Program welcomes contribution of quality computer equipment and support dollars to accomplish our refurbishing work from donors across the nation.

Digital Divide

"The term 'digital divide' describes the fact that the world can be divided into people who do and people who don't have access to - and the capability to use - modern information technology, such as the telephone, television, or the Internet. The digital divide exists between those in cities and those in rural areas. For example, a 1999 study showed that 86% of Internet delivery was to the 20 largest cities. The digital divide also exists between the educated and the uneducated, between economic classes, and, globally, between the more and less industrially developed nations." source: whatis.com

Computers for Kids Program
"Without effective computer and Internet training and meaningful access, millions of Americans are missing out on educational and career advancement, on satisfying and efficient communication and on the chance to participate fully in our society..."

The Digital Divide Council

..."Florida recognizes that despite impressive gains in the increased use of technology by society as a whole, a digital divide still does exist between those without adequate economic resources and access to the needed training and education to succeed in the information age and those that have these opportunities. The Legislatures intent in establishing the Digital Divide Council was to ensure that citizens have reasonable opportunities to access technology. In addition, technology training is needed to develop the knowledge and skills required to enhance ones quality of life"....

The Dignity Project
The Dignity Project, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 not for profit organization with many programs designed to aid members of the community in their quest for self-sufficiency and self-respect. Such programs include educating youth through our Auto Club and Academy, providing innovative transportation solutions, and remodeling homes.

Proposed Mission Statement:

To ensure that used computer equipment that no longer meet an enterprise's or an individual's needs are given a second productive life as a tool for developing the human potential of Alachua County citizens with disabilities, students at risk, and economically disadvantaged persons.

Re-using computers to bridge the digital divide

On June 12, 2003, a conversation began about increasing the re-use of computer equipment to promote technology opportunities for everyone throughout Alachua County. Discarded personal computer equipment, also known as E-Scrap, can have a second productive life. It can serve as a tool for developing human potential, while reducing the amount of electronic waste disposed in land fills.

Still to do: Review the E-Scrap practices of public agencies, non-public and corporate entities. These entities include but are not limited to Alachua County, the City of Gainesville, UF, Shands, the Alachua County School Board. The group would like all these entities to join the conversation.

Opportunities for Reuse to reduce the Digital Divide

The following issues were determined to need further discussion:

  1. Curbside Collection Proposal
  2. Improving Coordination and Collaboration of Reuse Initiatives
  3. Public and private partnerships
  4. Personal information security
  5. Software Licensing
  6. Cost Issues
  7. Measuring Success
  8. Telling this Story