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Providing Computers to Individuals and Families Across Long Island
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Community Computer Connections Program (CCCP) is a partnership of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Suffolk County and the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI). The goal of CCCP is to provide computers and printers free of charge to individuals and families across Long Island that can not otherwise afford them. Since its launch in September 2006, through the partnership between HWCLI and RSVP, the Community Computer Connections Program has placed more than 730 computers and over 150 printers in financially need-based homes of Long Islanders. Approximately 85% of computers are placed in households of school-age children and the remaining 15% are provided to adults, primarily seniors and individuals with disabilities. Gently used computers donated by individuals, companies and corporations are refurbished by RSVP volunteers. Computers are then distributed to individuals and families referred through HWCLI programs and other community partners.
CCCP is an innovative approach to responding to a community need. It creates a win/win situation for all involved:
§ The senior remains active in their community through volunteerism, while exercising their passion and skill in technology. In a subtler sense the program demonstrates that seniors are a natural resource that isn't diminishing and, through civic engagement, can be a solution to this area's growing human needs. Their "free" time equates to an investment of priceless years of experience, energy and dedication to our counties less fortunate.
§ The youth involved in CCCP have a wholesome outlet to develop their own technological skills while learning about giving back to their communities through service.
§ The local corporations have a tangible and worthy channel for donating computer systems while keeping these businesses aware of, and committed to, the communities in which they conduct commerce.
§ The recipients of these refurbished computers are given an essential tool for changing their lives, which they could not otherwise afford on their severely limited incomes. A computer was once thought of as a luxury item, but has become a vital component in households for developing skills, accessing knowledge, and remaining connected to the world.
§ Finally, RSVP and HWCLI as not-for-profit organizations benefit by having a volunteer opportunity that is "out of the box" in its approach. Most organizations think of volunteers as those that stuff envelopes and ladle soup at food pantries. With the advent of baby boomers a more educated and adventuresome group of seniors will be looking for community service opportunities that are meaningful and challenging to them while making a difference in the lives of others. Community Computer Connections Program does that.
§ An estimated 80-85 percent of computers are disposed of (largely to landfills) annually. Worldwide, only 13% of computer equipment is refurbished for further use. Computer refurbishers may add memory and other accessories to upgrade existing systems, while also fixing and replacing broken parts. Through refurbishing, rebuilding, upgrading and reuse, waste that would normally be generated is prevented from ever reaching landfills. By extending a computer’s useful life it can also save money in reducing disposal costs.
OVERVIEW OF REQUEST GUIDELINES
§ Contact HWCLI for the CCCP Request Form and detailed instructions at (516) 505-4425 or RTcholakova@hwcli.com.
§ All requests must be made by a case manager, social worker or other professional staff from a community-based agency. The CCCP Request Form must be completed by a staff person on behalf of the client and submitted via email to rtcholakova@hwcli.com.
§ Approval of request will be made by the HWCLI staff based on the financial need of the client. HWCLI will then submit approved requests to RSVP Suffolk for scheduling of equipment delivery and set up.
§ Depending on the workload of RSVP’s volunteers, it could take 8-10 weeks until equipment is ready for delivery to a client.
§ We ask caseworkers to ensure that clients approved prepare space for the computer near a power outlet and telephone jack (if they will be using dial-up service) and to provide a sturdy surface for the equipment.
DONATING EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE
Donations of used computers, associated equipment and software are solicited and received from businesses and individuals. Volunteers transport, refurbish and install computers in the homes of client families. We continue to be in need of the following to fulfill client requests. Click here for donation flyer.
§ Computer Requirements: Pentium 4 minimum and with processor speeds of over 1 gHz, 256 MB of RAM and 20 gB hard drive, CD drive, printer output, USB ports. Cannot accept MAC computers. ( Must have 3 or more computers to donate for pick up, otherwise please deliver to a nearby volunteer)
§ Printer Requirements: Printers must not be any older then 5 years and in good functioning conditions. As we may be able to refurbish some computers, we cannot refurbish printers.
§ Monitors Desired: 17" monitors (Must have 3 or more monitors to donate for pick up by volunteer.)
§ IBM-PC Compatible Software: Must be the original software and made for Windows 2000 or higher. The greatest need is for educational/learning software, targeted to Pre-K – 8th grade. Examples include:
Please click on the following links for more information. Feel free to print the flyers and distribute to your agency representatives:
If you are an agency interested in making a request on behalf of a client, please contact Rushka Tcholakova at HWCLI at 516-505-4425 or rtcholakova@hwcli.com.
If you are interested in volunteering or donating technical equipment (computer, monitors, accessories or software), please call contact Joel Becker at RSVP Suffolk (631-979-9490).
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