Summer, Issue 1
T4T Program Launches Digital Independence Drive to Reach 100 Families
Triangle United Way’s Teaming for Technology (T4T) Program has launched an online “Digital Independence Drive” fundraising campaign to provide computer access to 100 Triangle area residents through its partnerships with nonprofits and schools. The drive’s goal is to raise $5,000 by Aug. 24, 2007.
According to a study conducted by the Children’s Partnership, 81 percent of households in North Carolina earning less than $15,000 per year do not own a computer and 85 percent do not use the internet at home (national average is 77 percent and 82 percent respectively). For every $50 donated, T4T is able to provide one family with access to a Pentium 4 CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse and a licensed copy of Microsoft XP operating software valued at $700.
“Recently we’ve heard and seen a lot of news coverage about global efforts to bridge the digital divide,” says Cecil Wright, senior vice president of Information Services for Triangle United Way. "T4T is committed to addressing this issue right here in our own communities. Technology is a valuable resource that provides people living with disabilities, students and seniors with access to our information-based society.”
T4T must raise $40,000 by the end of 2007 to expand its projects and have a deeper impact in the community. This year T4T has launched and expanded several projects to enhance the capacity of its mission to train youth and provide people living with disabilities with the knowledge and skills needed to attain their personal goals. Donors interested in supporting the Digital Independence Drive can click here to pledge online.
For more information on the Teaming for Technology program, please contact Michelle Gonzales at 463-5027 or mlgonzales@unitedwaytriangle.org.
