Organization wipes computers, restores them to factory settings, gives them away
LAS VEGAS – One of the most difficult parts about purchasing a new computer is deciding what to do with the old one. Many places accept computer equipment for recycling, but Computers4Cause, a nonprofit organization, recycles working desktops, laptops, keyboards, flat-screen monitors and mice by wiping the hard drives, restoring them to factory settings and giving them to people in need.
Jim Brock, owner of Simple Computer Repair, founded the organization in 2010 out of customer demand – people didn’t know what to do with their old, yet working, equipment. Donations are tax deductible and are accepted at Simple Computer Repair’s Southwest valley location at 5130 S. Fort Apache Road, Ste. 263.
“We heard it continually – ‘Is there anywhere I can donate my old computer? It might seem like it runs slow to me, but I know someone else could benefit from it,’” Brock said. “We heard it so often we thought, ‘Why not do something good?’ We also thought it would be very good for the community.”
In the last three years, recipients have included low-income families, single parents, shelters, church groups, and teen and support groups. Individuals and organizations can apply for a refurbished, donated computer online at www.Computers4Cause.com.
“I’ve seen people cry when we give them a computer,” Brock said. “I’ve seen some pretty ecstatic people and organizations. It’s very rewarding … when the mom, dad and kids come in so excited, and they’re hugging you because they’re so happy.”
Donated computers must be in working condition with hard drives included, as the organization has no means to recycle inoperable equipment.
“People respond to this when they hear about it. Everyone has a computer or a flat-screen monitor in their garage and know they should do something positive with it,” Brock said. “There are plenty of support groups that lack funding for everything they need. Computers are always on their list. If it’s something we can provide for them, they can spend their money elsewhere.”
Brock said he hopes the donated computers help to bridge the gap between the haves and the have-nots. Often, it can mean the difference between employment and unemployment, he said.
“Low-income families are sometimes cut off from growth because of the lack of financial means to acquire technology,” Brock said. “Seeing people in their 30s who have no knowledge of technology because of lack of resources was an eye-opener for me.”
Simple Computer Repair opened in 2008 and provides repair services for all makes and models of desktops and laptops, Apple iPhones, iPads and iPods; game consoles and flat screen TVs. Although there are two Simple Computer Repair locations in the Las Vegas area and one near Phoenix, computer donations are accepted only at the store at 5130 S. Fort Apache Road, Ste. 263. All locations are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For additional information on Simple Computer Repair, visit simplecomputerrepair.com or call 487-5557.