Getting rid of old technology

With the speed at which information technology systems and software change, by way of faster processing of information, larger storage capacities, increased functionality and improved operating systems, it stands to reason that outdated IT hardware can build up and take up space in your home or office, thus eventually leading to the purchase of new systems. So, what do you do with the old PC or laptop?

We have looked at one method of disposal that a big box store uses, namely Best Buy. If you were not already aware, non-profits are another great refuge for disposing of old IT systems. There is a non-profit organization called National Cristina Foundation, which is like a clearinghouse for donated computers, laptops and various other forms of IT hardware and software. The National Cristina Foundation is joined with other, legitimate non-profits, public agencies and schools throughout the United States, Canada and internationally. The organization's main purpose is to move used computers, laptops and other types of IT hardware and software that has been donated to the aforementioned entities to be used by economically disadvantaged citizens, those who have disabilities, employment training programs and at risk students both nationally and internationally.

If you're interested in making a donation of your old system, software or other IT hardware such as printers and peripherals to the National Cristina Foundation, all you have to do is visit their website at http://www.cristina.org and you will find all of the information to assist you in making a donation. Make sure that you pay close attention to the organization's specific requirements regarding what is an acceptable, donated PC or laptop. This information can also be found on the website as well.

There is a local non-profit organization that specifically deals with securing and receiving old IT technology that is being donated in the local area as well. The organization is called Nonprofit Technology Resources and it is located in Philadelphia. The organization's main purpose is to provide donated computers and laptops to low income people and community based organizations in the city. NTR also provides hands on assistance and training, to those receiving donated systems, so that they are able to use the systems properly. Just go to http://ntrweb.org/ for more information and directions on how to make donations.

One of our business partners, in information technology, is very involved, as well, in properly discarding of old technology and although they specialize in creating and building new PCs and laptops, they will take donations of IT hardware no matter what the brand name may be. The company is DELL and its program is called "Dell Reconnect." Dell's recycling program will accept computer equipment no matter what condition it is in and they do recycle it for free. Another great thing about Dell's program is that they make sure that any and all sensitive materials that could harm the environment are never disposed of in landfills.

The final group and probably the most extensive, in terms of its outreach is the World Computer Exchange organization which is considered to be North America's leading non-profit organization that deals with finding large quantities of donated PCs and laptops which they supply to developing countries around the world. The WCE has over 570 partner organizations throughout the world and about 25 chapters located in and around the United States to which donations of IT hardware can be made.

Without question, the WCE maintains a world view on the provision of technology as it believes that the world's youths deserve an education and that this can be achieved through providing them access to the Internet and the World Wide Web. It is important to remember that the WCE deals in very large quantities of PCs and laptops which is more applicable to companies and corporations as they would be entities that need to dispose of larger amounts of technology at any given time. To learn more about the World Computer Exchange, just visit the website http://www.worldcomputerexchange.org/.

Given the fact that this is a major time of the year when people will be getting that new PC or laptop under the tree on Christmas Day, thus preparing the way for the need to dispose of their old system, the information contained herein, I hope, will provide a definite resource of organizations that can be used to donate your unwanted technology to. Whatever you do, please make sure that it will be environmentally safe.

- Andino Ward