Compudopt's Fabulous Summer of Impact!
As the seasons change and our journey to bridge the digital divide continues, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible strides we've made over the past several months. From transformative milestones, to heartwarming success stories, we are thrilled to share with you Compudopt’s recent accomplishments.
Thank you for your unwavering support and for being a vital part of our success. Together, we're rewriting the stories of countless lives, and we can't wait to have you by our side as we embrace the seasons to come.
ATLANTA:
Operational Milestones:
- We launched Compudopt Connected in another apartment complex, wiring 458 units at The Commons in Atlanta. We now have 4,907 total active and connected families in Atlanta, but we’re not stopping there! Our work with Althea continues to grow, and we’re assessing three potential properties for future builds. Our dedication to fostering tech access is evident in our ongoing distribution plans. We’ve distributed 2,359 computers this year and have partners lined up until the Fall of 2024.
Empowering Education:
- Fall 2023 is set to witness a remarkable feat with 16 confirmed programs that will contribute substantially to achieving our tech education objectives for the year. The forthcoming semester promises a vibrant learning journey for our youth!
Community Engagement Beyond Borders:
- The Atlanta Compudopt team received an esteemed invitation to participate in the Ebenezer Back to School Block Party. This historic event, hosted by the renowned Ebenezer Baptist Church, holds deep ties to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his father's powerful messages.
- Our involvement extends to promoting and enrolling participants in low-cost
and free internet solutions, including the Federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Towards an Empowering Future:
- As we journey ahead, we're actively engaged in interviews to secure a new site lead for our Atlanta office. This strategic move reflects our unwavering commitment to a dynamic and dedicated team.
CHICAGO:
Empowering Digital Access:
- In July, the City of Chicago’s Digital Equity Coalition launched a computer donation drive. Compudopt was thrilled to be named a beneficiary, with several individuals pledging their support and promising leads emerging from several new companies.
- We concluded the summer in Chicago with over 10 computer distribution events, during which we handed out more than 800 devices.
Elevating Educational Initiatives:
- Progress marches steadfastly as we propel towards our program goals for the upcoming Fall semester. Our partnerships with enthusiastic hosts stand ready, awaiting the signal to launch engaging programs.
- We hosted 10 programs this summer in Chicago, impacting over 190 students.
- Currently on track to exceed all program goals by the end of our Fall semester.
Milestones in Development:
- We welcomed the support of several returning and new donors.
DALLAS:
On August 9th and 10th we celebrated with our partners and community members our milestone of serving 5,000 Dallas residents with free connectivity support services! Here’s a recap in case we missed you!
From games and ice cream to 66 families receiving computers, we loved getting to welcome community members to this celebration which took place at the West Dallas Multipurpose Center.
Representatives from Senator Cornyn’s office attended, and we received a letter of appreciation from Congressman Marc Veasey which was read aloud during the program. We heard the compelling story from a family who has received our service and recognized the 1,000th household to get internet! Another key part of this celebration was to recognize and thank Santander Consumer USA Foundation. Their initial $7M investment to support our work in Dallas is what has made it possible for us to do this work. In fact, thanks to their gift, across all our programs we’ve impacted more than 50,000 community members.
On the 10th we had a few more fireworks to celebrate at a noon zoom for our friends and partners who couldn’t attend in person the day before. The presentation highlighted impressive figures – positive shifts in households impacted, expanded computer access, and enriched educational opportunities for students. Don Smith, Santander's Chief Technology Officer, underscored the ongoing importance of digital inclusion. We also heard from Marycruz De Leon from the Dallas Federal Reserve also joined the gathering, shedding light on broader community efforts and sharing a link to a Digital Inclusion Research Forum that will be hosted on October 12th and 13th.
A sincere thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to this achievement. We remain committed to a digitally inclusive future and welcome future collaborative partnerships. Compudopt Dallas and our partners are united in our goal: to make digital inclusion the norm. For more information or to provide support, please visit: https://www.compudopt.org/dallas.
HOUSTON:
Computers Distributed:
- As summer came to a close, we successfully distributed more than 1,700 computers, enabling us to surpass our annual goal of distributing 5,700 devices.
Engaging the Community:
- Our commitment to community engagement shines through as we participated in noteworthy events like the Family Resource and Back to School Expo at DeKaney High School. These events enable us to connect with potential partners and expand our outreach.
Vibrant Volunteer Engagement:
- We fostered a culture of volunteerism by hosting engaging events that brought together partners like the Society of Hispanic Engineers, TC Energy, and the Houston Advisory Board. A total of 48 dedicated volunteers generously contributed 204 hours in July alone.
Successful Summer Programs:
- Summer 2023 marked a successful period as we completed a total of 21 programs, catering to the educational needs of 273 students.
Exciting Fall 2023 Plans:
- Anticipating an exciting fall season, we are already in discussions with 21 potential sites. Our ambition is to serve 27 diverse cohorts, ranging from Tiny Techs to Digital Skills programs.
Tech Lab’s Remarkable Endeavors:
- Our Tech Lab team has been hard at work, refurbishing over 600 donated devices with the invaluable assistance of volunteers. A remarkable 550 machines were expertly refurbished in the month of July alone.
Triumphant Back-to-School Bash:
- The Back-to-School Bash held on August 5 th was a resounding success. Partnering with HP, Compudopt proudly distributed 600 laptops and backpacks filled with essential school supplies to the local community, making a meaningful impact.
MESA:
Leadership Transition:
- This summer, we welcomed Donna Beedle as the new Mesa site director. Her swift acclimation to her role is promising and she’s quickly getting up to speed.
Enhancing Program Management:
- To strengthen our presence and relationships in Mesa, we’ve brought in a dedicated program director. Additionally, the recruitment process is ongoing for an Ops position, and we’re actively sourcing potential candidates for community engagement.
Expansion Plans:
- Upon securing the additional staff members, we’re gearing up to engage in Digital Life Clinic events. These events will significantly contribute to increasing our ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) outreach figures and further expand our computer registration list.
Physical Location Consideration:
- We’re in the process of identifying a suitable physical location within Mesa. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing our flexibility and granting easier access to our equipment, ultimately streamlining our operations.
NATIONAL:
National Impact:
- A remarkable feat this summer is our significant impact on over 9,450+ individuals nationwide.
Educational Programs:
- Throughout the summer, we successfully conducted 23 educational programs, creating a positive influence on the lives of 178 students.
Diverse Regional Reach:
- Our commitment extends across various regions as we brought our Tech education programs to Galveston, St. Louis, Seattle, Dayton, and Evansville this summer.
Widespread Computer Distribution:
- Our efforts in computer distribution have been substantial this summer, with 717+ computers reaching individuals across the nation.
- Notable areas benefiting from our distributions include Cleveland, OH, Evansville, IN, Lexington, KY, Henryetta, OK, St. Louis, MO, Washington state, New Orleans, and Miami.
Together, we're charting a transformative path across the nation, one that bridges digital divides, empowers technology education, and paves the way for a brighter future. Thank you for your steadfast support, which is instrumental in driving these endeavors forward.
This Earth Month, we’re celebrating a partnership that does more than reduce waste — it changes lives. Compudopt has teamed up with Micro Center, a leading electronics retailer, to collect working laptops and desktops at all 28 of their locations nationwide. Instead of collecting dust or ending up in a landfill, your old device can power a future. Millions of computers are discarded every year, contributing to a growing e-waste crisis. Through this partnership, we’re putting that tech to better use by refurbishing donated devices and placing them directly into the hands of students and families who need them most. Just ask one of our 5th-grade recipients: He was beaming with excitement as he picked up his very first laptop. He told us, “I’m going to download Blender and another design program as soon as I get home!” He loves designing games at school and couldn’t wait to start building his own 3D animated game. He doesn’t have a name for it yet — but he said, “I just know it’s going to be the coolest game ever!!” Moments like this are why we do what we do. Your support—your donated device—can open a world of possibility. Why It Matters By donating your working device, you’re making a real difference: Bridging the digital divide : Empower students with the tools they need to learn, explore, and create. Reducing e-waste : Extend the life of your tech and keep electronics out of landfills. Creating opportunity : Every device means one more child who can connect, learn, and dream big. How You Can Help Drop off your used, working laptop or desktop at any Micro Center location this Earth Month. It will be securely wiped, refurbished, and given a new life with a student or family in need. Your gift — whether a device or a donation — powers: Technology access for students like our young game designer An honest, scalable solution to the growing e-waste problem Hope and opportunity in communities that need it most Thank You, Micro Center We’re proud to partner with Micro Center in this national effort to promote sustainability and expand opportunity through technology. Their commitment to supporting education and reducing e-waste is helping us change the future, one device at a time. A Lasting Impact This Earth Month, don’t let your old tech go to waste. Put it to work for the planet and a child’s future. Donate Your Old Device Together, we can create opportunities, reduce waste, and inspire the next generation of creators. One laptop. One child. One future transformed .
This Earth Month, Compudopt is proud to partner with Mission Telecom to spotlight a powerful force for environmental and social change: electronic recycling with purpose. We often think of recycling in terms of paper, plastic, or glass, but what about that unused laptop in your drawer or the 2015 desktop sitting idle in storage? When you donate these devices, you’re not just reducing waste—you’re extending the opportunity to students and families nationwide. The Hidden Cost of E-Waste E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. Electronics may seem harmless when tucked away in a closet, but once discarded improperly, they can release toxic materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium into the environment. These substances contaminate soil and water, posing serious threats to ecosystems and public health. Recycling electronics responsibly isn’t optional—it’s essential. Through this partnership, we’re taking meaningful action. From Waste to Worth: Bridging the Digital Divide In 2024 alone, Compudopt diverted 246,820 pounds—or 123.41 U.S. tons—of technology from landfills. But the impact goes beyond environmental preservation. As of 2021, over 5.5 million U.S. households lacked access to a working computer. For these families, it’s not just a missing convenience—it’s a missing lifeline to education, jobs, and healthcare. Together with Mission Telecom, we’re transforming recycled technology into opportunity. We have started our process of providing low-cost internet access to 10,000 devices to reach our goal of 30,000 households nationwide—and we need your help to make it happen. Every recycled device could become: A student’s virtual classroom A job seeker’s career launchpad A family’s connection to telehealth and services Recycle. Donate. Empower. When you recycle your devices with Compudopt and Mission Telecom, you’re choosing to make a difference for the planet and for people. This Earth Month, we invite you to take action: Recycle your unused tech Donate devices or contribute funds to refurbishing efforts Empower families with access to opportunity Click the link below and donate today! compudopt.org/earth-month A Thank You to Mission Telecom—and to You We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mission Telecom, whose continued partnership helps turn every recycled device into a life-changing tool. Together, we’re not just reducing e-waste but building a more empowered, connected future. By donating your old technology, you’re doing more than helping the planet—you’re helping someone take their very first step toward a brighter future because the second life of your device could be a first chance for someone else.
The no-cost Internet program launched in Houston with 200 families also receiving free laptop computers HOUSTON (Feb. 24, 2025) – Compudopt , a national nonprofit providing free technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities, is set to give free high-speed Xfinity Internet service to thousands of families in Houston, Atlanta and Chicago thanks to a new partnership with global media and technology company Comcast . Compudopt is able to provide the free Xfinity internet service through Comcast’s Internet Essentials Partnership Program (IEPP) . Compudopt and Comcast are committed to shrinking the digital divide, which impacts nearly 11% of U.S. households lacking access to a high-speed internet connection, according to 2023 U.S. Census Data. “While digital access and connectivity are increasingly important resources, challenging economic times force families to choose between internet services and household necessities,” said Compudopt CEO Megan Steckly. “Our partnership with Comcast offers families affordable, accessible solutions, especially to the thousands of households impacted by the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).” IEPP was launched by Comcast in 2020 as part of its Internet Essentials initiative, designed to accelerate student internet adoption through partnerships with school districts and adjacent organizations. Comcast has established IEPPs with hundreds of schools, school districts and other organizations across the country. “Every family deserves to be connected to education, healthcare, online banking, community and more,” Comcast Texas’ Regional Senior Vice President Jose Espinel said. “We know digital accessibility opens the door to more opportunities, and we’re inspired by the impact this partnership with Compudopt will make on thousands of American households.” To celebrate the partnership, Compudopt and Comcast hosted an event at the Tejano Center for Community Concerns, where the organizations distributed 200 free laptops and connected 200 local families to Comcast’s Xfinity internet service at no cost. Local elected officials were also in attendance. Click here to view and download photos from the distribution event . Also share and tag @compudopt on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram. Families can learn more and sign up for a computer and internet distribution event near them at compudopt.org/computergiveaway . 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 Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Media Contacts Teddi Cliett Three Box on behalf of Compudopt P: (214) 635-3025 E: tcliett@threebox.com Ilona Carson Comcast Texas Manager, Public Relations P: (346) 624-2074 E: Ilona_Carson@comcast.com
Compudopt Brings Digital Opportunity to 65K+ and Secures National E-Waste, Telecommunications Partnerships in Q4 2024
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 .
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
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
A Summer of Service: Compudopt Impacts More Than 65K, Receives $1M+ in Corporate Funding to Bridge the Digital Divide
Compudopt Celebrates Digital Inclusion Week with Device Distributions & Tech Education Events Across the Nation
Compudopt, AT&T Equip 13,000 Students With Free Back-To-School Resources This summer, Compudopt and AT&T will distribute free laptops, backpacks and online resources to thousands of students across the country
