NCET Biz Tips: New2u Computers Helps Makes Old Technology New Again
NCET helps you explore business and technology
By Dave Archer
At New2U Computers, technology gets a new life and individuals with disabilities receive training and work experience. It’s no wonder this organization, along with iCelebrate (formerly High Sierra Industries) were just named NCET’s 2019 Technology Nonprofit of the Year.
A division of Disability Resources, New2U Computers securely recycles or rebuilds a variety of electronics, including computers, laptops, monitors, printers, scanners and more. Through these efforts, the organization is helping to mitigate the potentially damaging effects of electronic waste. Improper disposal of electronic waste can cause toxic chemicals to seep into the land and contaminate waterways.
Disability Resources is a non-profit committed to helping children and adults with disabilities achieve their highest potential. Since 1993, Disability Resources has supported individuals who have been diagnosed with a severe chronic disability that is attributed to mental or physical impairments. The organization currently supports about 150 people with disabilities and helps them live independently and achieve their goals.
Through its New2U Computers division, Disability Resources provides on-the-job paid training for adults with disabilities. Program participants learn how to disassemble, test and reassemble computer systems. They also develop career readiness skills, increase their occupational knowledge and establish a work history.
New2U Computers accepts donations of electronics, including computers, LCD monitors, printers and other office equipment. After items are donated, they are screened at New2U Computers’ facility in Sparks.
Some of the technology is cleaned of any data and then donated to local people with disabilities, charities, and schools. Other computers, parts, and miscellaneous items are sold to the public to raise money for Disability Resources. All of the technology that goes through New2U Computers is cleared of data according to the Department of Defense level data destruction, and adherence to HIPAA compliance policies.
Items that cannot be reused are recycled to the highest standards. New2U Computers is the first nonprofit in Northern Nevada to achieve R2 certification. R2 recyclers are audited annually and follow strict industry standards to ensure the quality, transparency and environmentally responsible recycling practices of their facilities and downstream vendors. New2U Computers’ recycling process adheres to all federal EPA guidelines and regulations, zero landfill policy.
Through all of its efforts, New2U Computers and Disability Resources are helping to make our community a greener and more inclusive place.
See where the transformation happens and bring your old technology to recycle during NCET’s Tech Wednesday event from 5:30–7:30 p.m. on March 13 at New2U Computers. New2U Computers will be accepting a variety of technology, including CPUs/towers, laptops, LCD monitors, fax machines, memory, UPSs, office supplies, cell phones, cables, PDAs, scanners, speakers, networking equipment, printers, software, books, hard drives, telephone systems, ink/toner and video game equipment. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit NCETwed.org.
Dave Archer is president/CEO of NCET, which produces educational and networking events to help people explore business and technology.