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Looking for solutions to curb e-waste and lessen the digital divide?  Freegeek.org is a program developed in Portland, OR to provide free computers to the community.  Anyone can qualify - they simply need to donate 24 hours of community service to the Freegeek organization.  Freegeek volunteers are taught how to refurbish donated computer equipment or provide other assistance to the organization, whether tech-related or not.  There are limitations to what type of computer specs they can provide, but the computers are capable of basic functions, e.g. word processing, web browsing, and email, and uses open source software (Ubuntu Linux).  In addition, classes on how to use the software are available.  While this organization is developed specifically for the Portland community, it is a successful model for similar programs in other communities.  This solution to the digital divide not only provides a product for those in need, but it provides training and education for its volunteers, as well as internship opportunities.  For schools interested in developing community service programs that simultaneously meets the needs of a community but also provides an educational opportunity for budding  "geeks", the FreeGeek model would be a terrific resource.  

Disciplines:

• Education

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