Helping Out in the Community: Chamber Computer Challenge Benefiting Computers 2 San Diego Kids

WAXIE Sanitary Supply in San Diego is a proud supporter of Computers 2 San Diego Kids and the “Chamber Computer Challenge.” The challenge is a campaign benefiting Computers 2 San Diego Kids, who are celebrating their 10th year of refurbishing computers donated by local companies to give to families who do not have a computer in their household. We'd like to help by getting the word out. The San Diego Regional Chamber, Computers to San Diego Kids (C2SDK) and U-T San Diego released this press release the other day.

San Diego Regional Chamber, U-T San Diego and Computers 2 SD Kids Launch “Chamber Computer Challenge” to Collect Computers for Families

In an effort to provide low-income families and children with a computer that will bring technology to their home for the first time, the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with U-T San Diego and Computers 2 SD Kids (C2SDK) to launch the “Chamber Computer Challenge” campaign.

Beginning today, local San Diego businesses can donate their unused computers to C2SDK to be refurbished and distributed to families across San Diego County who still do not have this essential tool.

Nearly eight out of every 10 jobs in the next decade will require some degree of computer literacy, and nearly 80% of teachers assign online homework, yet an estimated 28% of San Diego County families still do not have a computer at home. As a result, these families – which are disproportionately low-income and minorities – are at-risk of becoming isolated, and unable to fully participate academically, economically, socially, personally and politically in an increasingly digital world.

Businesses and organizations across San Diego County – from small home offices to large enterprises – that want to be part of the solution and make a potentially life-changing difference in the lives of their fellow San Diegans, have three ways to participate in the Chamber Computer Challenge:

1. Donate their computer(s), personal/mobile devices, and peripheral equipment (e.g. monitors, keyboards, printers, toner, etc.), which C2SDK will pick-up at no charge.
2. Demonstrate their social responsibility by hosting a drive to collect donations
3. Pledge a cash or equipment donation for their future equipment refresh

In addition to helping to change the lives of children and their families, the computer donations will also help the environment by keeping e-waste out of the landfills.

C2SDK is certified for recycling and refurbishment, and adheres to its high safety standards to ensure that all devices are securely wiped before being distributed. During the past 10 years, notable businesses such as Qualcomm, Cox Communications and Sharp Hospital have donated thousands of computers to C2SDK.

“As the hub for collaboration among the San Diego business community, it is important to the Chamber to use the power of our connections to benefit others in our community,” said Jerry Sanders, President and CEO of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Through this Challenge, we hope that Chamber members both large and small will step up and donate their equipment to Computers 2 SD Kids to make a difference for our next generation. Not only is this a responsible choice for the environment, but the more opportunities we can give children to prepare them for the future benefits our future workforce immensely.”  

“U-T San Diego has always been committed to educating and empowering families across San Diego County,” commented Mike Hodges, President and COO of U-T San Diego. “We’re thrilled to help lead the Chamber Computer Challenge, and expect that the incredible San Diego County business community will rise to the challenge and send a positive message that won’t just be heard here, but across the country and around the world, too.”

More information on the Chamber Computer Challenge campaign, which kicks-off on September 30, 2014, is available at www.c2sdk.org.