In a notable initiative to address the digital divide and environmental sustainability, Titobiloluwa Oreolorun, an MBA candidate at Olin Business School, has recently partnered with the Skandalaris Center to launch JustUsed Tech, a nonprofit organization with a mission to refurbish computers and phones for donation to disadvantaged students in St. Louis and children in Africa facing digital resource shortages.
JustUsed Tech operates with a clear and impactful mission to transform electronic devices from mere gadgets into agents of change. The organization also focuses on two crucial pillars of environmental sustainability and community empowerment. The primary goal of JustUsed Tech is to repurpose and refurbish electronic devices, reducing electronic waste while simultaneously providing much-needed resources to those facing digital disparities.
Titobi and the team are actively engaged in gathering older computers, phones, peripherals, monitors, and other electronic devices from donors willing to contribute to this cause (personal devices are being sought, not managed/owned by Washington University.) When they receive donations, they repair and securely wipe the devices before distributing them locally in St. Louis or shipping them internationally to children and students in Africa. This comprehensive approach not only benefits local St. Louis communities but also addresses the digital resource shortages experienced by children in various African countries.
The timeline for this endeavor is set for mid to late October, and JustUsed Tech is calling on individuals with unused or outdated electronic devices to make a difference by contributing to this cause (personal devices are being sought, not managed/owned by Washington University.) JustUsed Tech’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its dedication to a circular economy. By leveraging cutting-edge technology solutions, the organization actively participates in reducing electronic waste, contributing to a more sustainable future while bridging the digital disparity gaps. The impact of their efforts extends beyond individual donations, as JustUsed Tech has already empowered over 10,000 individuals in Africa and collaborated with 25 corporate entities in their journey towards community empowerment.
As we navigate an increasingly digital world, initiatives like JustUsed Tech play a crucial role in narrowing the digital divide, fostering environmental responsibility, and creating a positive impact on communities both locally and globally. Tech Den, the campus technology hub that serves the graduate/professional students and non-residential students, recently donated iMacs that are no longer in use to the department. Tech Den staff also stepped up and donated their personal devices under the leadership of the IT Director, Dr.Sherry Holmes. Mark Wilensky, the Business Analyst for Tech Den also made a great impact by raising a notable amount of donation fund for the initiative. By supporting organizations like JustUsed Tech, Tech Den is excited to contribute to a more connected, empowered, and sustainable future for all.
If you’re interested in being part of this meaningful initiative, please consider donating your gadgets you no longer use to JustUsed Tech.
More information can be found on: http://tinyurl.com/2s4kzu7p