Computers for Schools Builds APEGGA's Future By Recycling Equipment

Out there in some struggling Alberta school, a future APEGGA member needs a better computer lab to make her educational dreams come true. You can also be sure, however, that Alberta Computers for Schools has already matched plenty of quality, refurbished equipment with the boys and girls who will use math and science to build a better world.

Since its formation, Alberta Computers for Schools has delivered more than 35,000 computers. The national parent organization, created in 1993, is now aiming for the 400,000 mark across Canada. "Nobody thought when it started it would ever come to this. That's a lot of computers, no doubt about it," says Lucien Villeneuve, program manager of Alberta CFS.

But there's always room for more, Mr. Villeneuve says. In fact filling in the valleys when donations drop is a constant challenge. The Alberta group faced a shortage in late 2002, even while on its way to a record-breaking year of 9,827 deliveries.

Two APEGGA permit-holding companies, however, are largely responsible for a current large inventory. "We were in a valley. But now we have enormous quantities of high-end stuff, most notably from Imperial Oil and Shell. And this is better equipment than we've ever seen before. The inventory goes up and it goes down. It can all change in three months."

CFS is not, however, just for the big players, Mr. Villeneuve emphasizes. "We need your readers to know that we are out there, we do take donations and we do issue tax receipts." CFS seeks computers of at least Pentium 166 level.

In two jurisdictions, a CFS pilot program is matching computers with teachers, too. The idea is that teachers who become proficient by using a donated computer at home will be more skillful in helping their students.

It's just another way to recycle computers. "Our mandate is to make sure none of this good equipment is wasted or destroyed prematurely," says Mr. Villeneuve.
About 20 staff and volunteers refurbish and deliver the computers. Volunteers are always welcome on the refurbishing end, Mr. Villeneuve says.

Will donating or volunteering make a difference? By at least one indication, yes. "We get letters," says Mr. Villeneuve.

MORE INFORMATION

(780) 427-9002

Lucien.Villeneuve@gov.ab.ca
http://ednet.edc.gov.ab.ca/cfs