The BC Technology for Learning Society recently celebrated donors' contributions to the Computers for School Plus Program at its annual June gala.
The five donor honourees come from a group of 120 donors who contributed a combined total of 14,547 computers, laptops and tablets, monitors, smartphones, projectors, printers, TVs and other items, valued at $2.6 million
"Because we can't do anything without a computer anymore, a number of people, particularly seniors and low-income families who don't have computers in the home, struggle without access," BC Technology for Learning Society executive director Mary-Em Waddington says.
"We make sure people have access to the tools they need, as well as reducing e-waste. But we can't do the work we do without our donors. They are the linchpin of our organization and it's important for us to bring our donor community together to say thank you."
Since its inception in 1995, BC Tech for Learning has distributed over 195,000 computers and laptops to all corners of the province as the B.C. delivery agent of the Computers for Schools Plus program.
Partner in Education Award - Langara College
To kick off the gala, Langara College was awarded the Partner in Education Award.
“As an educational institution, we have a responsibility to lead initiatives that positively contribute to our community and reduce barriers to students’ success,” said David Cresswell, associate vice president strategic transformation and chief information officer at Langara College.
“We are proud to support the BC Technology for Learning Society and help put technology in the hands of those who need it most, including schools and libraries. Recycling used technology is an important sustainability initiative towards creating green education.”
Partner in Community Investment Award - Tolko
The Partner in Community Investment was given to Tolko.
“I am honoured to receive this award on behalf of Tolko in recognition of our commitment to making a positive impact in our communities,” said information technology director Angela Polanski. “We are thrilled to provide technology to groups and families who need them so these materials don’t go to waste.”
Very Fancy New Donor Award - Titmouse
Titmouse was the recipient of the Very Fancy New Donor Award, given in appreciation of their gift of a full set of computers for the Children’s Arts Umbrella’s new Vancouver Island campus’s animation studio.
Environmental Sustainability Award - Kwantlen Polytechnic University
The Environmental Sustainability Award was presented to Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU).
“Since 2019, KPU has been working with the BC Technology For Learning Society (BCTLS) to provide refurbished technology for reuse in schools, not-for-profit organizations, libraries, First Nations and other groups, described Peter Smailes, vice president of administration.
“Reusing our equipment in this way helps us meet our sustainability goals while having a positive social impact.”
Diligence & Excellence Award - ActiveCo
As the final presentation of the night, ActiveCo was honoured with the Diligence & Excellence Award.
“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our clients for their unwavering support, trust, and generosity throughout the years. Without them, this achievement would not have been possible,” said Inder Bola, client success manager.
“We are truly humbled by this recognition and will continue to strive for even greater heights.”
To learn more about the BC Technology for Learning Society, how the process works, and how to get involved, visit reusetechbc.ca.
