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The national non-profit has served more than 43,000 students, diverted 450 tons of hardware from the landfill and added a Dallas-based tech CEO to its board.

DALLAS (Aug. 16, 2021) – Comp-U-Dopt, a nonprofit that provides technology access and education to underserved youth, announced its latest addition to its board. Aligned Automation CEO Nitin Ahuja joined Comp-U-Dopt’s board in July, bringing the members to 16 distinguished leaders from the business and technology sectors to help extend and sustain the Comp-U-Dopt reach nationally. Comp-U-Dopt’s programs serve to eliminate limited access to computers, facilitate growth in technical and digital literacy skills and support the future of youth in our communities. Since 2007, they have served more than 43,000 children and young adults and diverted 450+ tons of computer hardware from landfills.

More than 30% of children from low-income families in America face inequitable access to technology, an issue commonly referred to as the digital divide. The effects are far-reaching, inhibiting the ability to do homework, make social connections and prepare effectively for college or the job market. Comp-U-Dopt has focused on closing the divide since 2007, driven by the belief that every child deserves equal access to education and opportunity. With an increased focus on remote learning, the pandemic served as a reminder for how important technology access is for children to succeed. 

“We’ve been addressing digital equity for more than 14 years,” said Megan Steckly, Comp-U-Dopt CEO. “As we gear up for another school year, we remember the unknown waters many school administrators and families navigated while adjusting rapidly to the virtual learning set in motion by COVID-19. While it was challenging for all families, those without reliable access to private computers and WIFI were among those hit hardest. We believe no child’s learning should be limited by technology access, no matter what the circumstances are.”

As Comp-U-Dopt grows, Steckly said they are also expanding their board of dedicated and committed leaders. In July they officially announced the addition of Dallas-based entrepreneur, Nitin Ahuja, who co-founded and leads Aligned Automation as CEO. 

“I have admired the work Megan and her team are doing to close the digital divide for years,” said Ahuja. “At Aligned Automation, we firmly believe every child deserves the opportunity to have access to the digital world. Not only does it measurably improve their opportunities in life, but accessibility also advances the next generation of innovative entrepreneurs.”

Comp-U-Dopt is expanding across the nation and currently has a presence in California, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Ohio, and Texas. The board is comprised of 15 other esteemed professionals from many backgrounds. 

“Nitin is a wonderful addition to our growing board,” said Steckly. “As we continue to expand, establishing an engaged board of exceptional leaders committed to change is a priority. Nitin brings a wealth of expertise and experience in technology, as well as a clear passion for investing in the future of today’s youth.”

Comp-U-Dopt operates a variety of programs from early-age access to job training for older children and young adults. To apply for a program or to get involved, visit the website at www.compudopt.org.

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About Comp-U-Dopt
Comp-U-Dopt is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 2007 with a mission to provide technology access and education to underserved youth. To date, it has distributed over 40,000 devices to students in need and delivered over 120,000 hours of technology education. Comp-U-Dopt has programs in California, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Ohio, Texas, and Washington D.C.. Learn more at www.compudopt.org.

About Aligned Automation and CEO Nitin Ahuja 
As the Founder and CEO of digital transformation services company Aligned Automation, Nitin Ahuja strives to improve the way modern organizations work. Guided by values of collaboration, courage, curiosity and creativity, Ahuja draws from more than 25-years of tech industry leadership experience to empower his teams of high performing subject matter experts and global business leaders. Learn more at www.alignedautomation.com.

 
Contact:
Candace Collins
419-217-7913  

Megan Pearl
314-443-8274   

By Kadein Duncan February 12, 2025
In today’s digital world, having access to a computer is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity! From completing school assignments to applying for jobs, technology plays a vital role in everyday life. Unfortunately, not every household has access to a working computer. That’s where Compudopt comes in, bringing hope and opportunity to families who need it most. With a free c omputer giveaway so you can receive your computer at no cost! Imagine your child being able to finish homework without struggling to find a device. Picture them confidently participating in online classes, exploring new knowledge, and reaching their full potential. Compudopt is excited to announce its Digital Life Fair Computer Giveaway for families in Northwest Tennessee ! If you or someone you know is without a working computer at home and has a child in K - 12 education, this is an opportunity to receive a free computer and empower your or another child's future! Who Qualifies? To be eligible for a free computer, applicants must meet the following criteria: You do not currently own a working computer at home. You have a child in K-12 education who deserves the chance to thrive. You live in one of the following counties: Gibson Obion Lake Henry Dyer Weakley Carroll Crockett How to Register The process is simple and easy! Interested families should register online for a chance to be selected. Register Here: https://www.compudopt.org/tennessee Once registered, names will be randomly selected based on available inventory before distribution dates. If you are selected, you will receive a notification via email and/or text message with instructions to complete the RSVP process and pick up your computer at a designated distribution site. Why This Matters Having a computer at home can open doors to countless opportunities, including: Improved educational outcomes for students who now have the tools to succeed. Access to online learning resources that fuel curiosity and lifelong learning. Better job and career opportunities for parents looking to build a stronger future for their families. Enhanced digital literacy for the whole family, creating possibilities for growth and financial stability. For many families, this is more than just a giveaway—it’s a life-changing opportunity. It’s the chance for a child to dream bigger, for a parent to find better work, and for a family to connect with a world of information and possibilities. Don’t Miss Out— Register Toda y ! If you or someone you know meets the eligibility requirements, don’t wait! Register today for a chance to be selected. Every computer given away is another step towards closing the digital divide and ensuring a brighter tomorrow for families in need. For more details and to sign up, visit: Compudopt Tennessee Giveaway .
By Kadein Duncan December 18, 2024
Personal donors and businesses can now donate used devices at all Micro Center locations to support underserved communities HOUSTON ( Dec. 18, 2024 ) – Compudopt , a national nonprofit dedicated to providing free technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities, has joined forces with leading electronics retailer Micro Center to make device recycling easier and promote digital equity. All 28 Micro Center locations across the country will now accept donations of used devices, including laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones. Compudopt will securely wipe, refurbish, and equip these devices with essential digital resources before distributing them at no cost to families and individuals in need across 57+ cities. “ Compudopt and Micro Center are addressing several critical challenges together,” said Megan Steckly , CEO of Compudopt . “We’re making it easy for consumers and businesses to donate unwanted devices, diverting e-waste from landfills, and creating opportunities for the 21% of American households who lack access to in-home computers. This access unlocks education, employment, economic mobility, and so much more.” Many businesses retire their devices after just three years , contributing to 20 million pounds of e-waste g enerated annually. This partnership offers a sustainable and impactful way to manage device recycling while supporting digital inclusion. “Micro Center is proud to support Compudopt’s mission of connectivity and digital equity through this meaningful partnership,” said Brad Kramer, CFO, and Co-COO of Micro Center. “We understand how vital technology is as a gateway to opportunity, and we are honored to help make the digital world more accessible.” Join Us in Making a Difference Compudopt and Micro Center are committed to bridging the digital divide and protecting the environment. Individuals and corporate teams can learn more about how to donate their used devices at the links below: Donate Personal Devices Donate Corporate Devices About Compudopt Compudopt is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities. Since its founding in 2007, Compudopt has empowered hundreds of thousands of individuals across 57+ cities and 24+ states. Click here for Compudopt’s media kit . About Micro Center Founded in 1979, Micro Center operates 28 stores nationwide, offering an extensive range of computers, electronics, and related products. Known for outstanding customer service and expertise, Micro Center is committed to innovation, community support, and inclusivity. Visit microcenter.com for more. Media Contacts Teddi Cliett Three Box on behalf of Compudopt P: (214) 635-3025 E: tcliett@threebox.com Meg Adrion Micro Center Director of Digital Marketing E: madrion@microcenter.com
By Kadein Duncan December 18, 2024
HOUSTON (Dec. 16, 2024) – Compudopt , a national nonprofit providing technology access and education at no cost to under-resourced youth and their communities, and Mission Telecom , a nonprofit telecommunications organization, have entered a three-year partnership to bridge the digital divide by providing 30K families nationwide with free digital devices and at least one year of free high-speed internet. Compudopt and Mission Telecom began collaborating in Nov. 2024 and have since distributed over 5,148 devices to under-resourced communities across the country. The two organizations officially kicked off the three-year partnership at a device distribution event in Houston earlier this month, where 102 local families received a free device and high-speed internet. High-resolution photos, video and b-roll from the event are available for view and download here . “At a time when technology impacts nearly every aspect of society, device access and connectivity are the first steps toward closing the gap,” said Compudopt CEO Megan Steckly. “By equipping a family with basic connectivity resources, we’re opening the door to economic mobility and social opportunity that changes lives. We’re proud to live out this mission alongside like-minded partners like Mission Telecom.” US Census data reports that as of 2021, up to 21% of American households lack an in-home computer, which creates roadblocks and challenges to navigating today’s digital landscape, from pursuing education to managing a bank account to sourcing health care, meaningful employment and more. Through the partnership, communities will experience the benefits of connectivity, as well as access to Compudopt’s multi-language IT support and a two-year device warranty to ensure they’re supported through their new digital journey. “Mission Telecom believes in the transformative power of affordable connectivity to drive social change, which only happens when communities are provided with equitable resources like device access,” said Mission Telecom Executive Director Rhea Yaw Ching. “Together, Compudopt and Mission Telecom are creating transformative, systemic change that will shift the current landscape for the better.” Families and individuals interested in receiving a free device and/or internet can learn more at www.compudopt.org/. About Compudopt Compudopt is a national nonprofit organization with a mission to provide technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities. Founded in 2007, Compudopt has provided device access, training and support to hundreds of thousands of individuals across the country. Compudopt operates in 57+ cities and 24+ states across the US. Click here to access Compudopt’s digital media kit. About Mission Telecom Mission Telecom is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit telecom providing affordable broadband and investing in a movement of systemic change. With a legacy spanning over 40 years, Mission Telecom reinvests surpluses from its telecommunications spectrum resources into driving social change. Our services enable nonprofits, educational institutions, and libraries to thrive in an interconnected world. We are on a mission to deliver innovative solutions that break barriers and champion equitable connectivity for everyone. To learn more, visit missiontelecom.org . Media Contacts Teddi Cliett Three Box on behalf of Compudopt P: (214) 635-3025 E: tcliett@threebox.com Elizabeth Rivera Mission Telecom, Director of Marketing and Communications P: (347) 461-7919 E: elizabeth.rivera@missiontelecom.org Dana Knox-Gower Mission Telecom, Marketing and Communications Manager P: (203) 558-0091 E: dana.knox-gower@missiontelecom.org
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