|
Teaming for Technology |
 |
Under the Teaming for Technology (Team Tech) program, nonprofit organizations in Broome County are able to improve their
operations by adding and/or enhancing their data base management,
communications, constituency building, program/service research, and program
evaluation systems.
A a United Way-funded program, Teaming for Technology helps the
local organizations with their computing and technological needs through the
distribution of donated computers and other hardware plus the technical
assistance provided by the program’s two staff members.
Teaming for Technology began in 1997 as a national partnership among IBM, AmeriCorps/VISTA, Public Allies, and United Way of America. Its goal was to enhance the ability of health and human service nonprofit agencies to deliver services, manage costs, and maximize effectiveness by providing technology, planning, and training. United Way of Broome County's program began in 1999 as the local coordinating organization for this effort.
As part of the project, Teaming for Technology helps United Way's member agencies and other nonprofit agencies in Broome County develop a technological assessment plan and help acquire and install hardware, software, and training services.
For 14 years, IBM Corp. has donated computers to Broome County not-for-profit agencies to help them increase their ability to effectively deliver their services. In 2005, IBM donated a total of 21 PCs, 6 Thinkpad laptop computers, and 10 Young Explorer computer stations, with a total value of $57,592. Binghamton Material Handling again donated its warehouse for use in distributing the computers.
The Young Explorer computer stations designed for children ages 3-7, together with educational software and learning materials for teachers and care providers, were donated to childcare centers as part of the IBM KidSmart Early Learning Program. This childhood learning initiative is designed to give pre-kindergarten youngsters a jumpstart on education through fun, interactive learning, and access to new technology.
Teaming for Technology also helped at least 25 local agencies during 2005 in creating and/or converting databases; technology planning; installing hardware and software; troubleshooting hardware, software, or network problems; setting up computers and networks; and data recovery.
Teaming for Technology also was a drop off point for PC Take Back Day event in May, 2005, where not-for-profits could bring old, used PCs, keyboards, mice, cords, printers, monitors, fax machines and more, to have them recycled. During the 1 day event, over 1 1/2 tons of old equipment was collected at the United Way. The Association for Vision Rehabilitation & Employment, Inc. (AVRE) provided the truck and driver to transport all the "junk" equipment to IBM so that it could be recycled and not taken to a landfill.
Updated: May 20, 2008
