On June 20, 2024, the BC Technology for Learning Society hosted its annual Donor Recognition event, celebrating 200,000 refurbished devices distributed in their 30 year history, and honouring organizations that have significantly contributed to the society's mission of providing job training for youth and access to refurbished technology for British Columbians.
The event highlighted the importance of technology donations in fostering digital inclusiveness and supporting vulnerable members of the community that are unable to afford their own device.
"By distributing computers at little or no cost, we enable the development of digital skills, providing Canadians with education and skills-building opportunities," says Mary-Em Waddington, executive director of BC Technology for Learning Society.
The organization's efforts help bridge the digital divide, ensuring that more people have access to essential services and opportunities available online.
This year's Donor Recognition event celebrated five organizations for their exceptional contributions to the society's mission.
Technology for Good Award
NTT DATA Canada received the "Technology for Good" award for their meaningful action on sustainability and social goals.
“Two of our core tenets are centered on environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility,” says Trevor Anderson, senior vice-president, Canada Health and Government at NTT DATA Canada.
“We are delighted to work with BC Technology for Learning Society to provide computers, laptops, in this case, and hopefully much more in the future, as their goals are so well aligned with what we're doing both around sustainability and giving back to communities.”
Zero Waste Champion Award
The City of Vancouver was honoured with the "Zero Waste Champion" award for their commitment to working towards zero waste.
"I thank all the work that goes into this from not just a local government perspective, but from a zero waste perspective. It's fantastic. I'm very proud of the city at this point," says Councillor Pete Fry.
"We decided to try and make sure that these computers got into the hands of low-income, non-profit, and local people who need them, so we're really happy to be a contributor to that,” Gordon McDonald, client services manager for the City of Vancouver says.
Company of Heroes Award
Relic Entertainment received the "Company of Heroes" award for their donation of gaming computers, which have been especially important to students in information technology, AutoCad, graphics communications and engineering design courses.
"Relic has always been eager to find meaningful ways of giving back to our communities, and we're so happy that we've been able to contribute through BC Tech for Learning in this way, knowing just how big of a difference that actually makes,” says Vlad Rozic, technology services support manager for Relic Entertainment.
Connecting Canadians Award
Canucks Sports & Entertainment were awarded the "Connecting Canadians" award for their technology donations and dedication to keeping Canadians connected. Their contributions of retired computer technology have made a significant impact on ensuring more people have access to essential digital resources.
Inspiring People Award
The University of British Columbia received the "Inspiring People" award for their long-standing commitment to donating computer technology across multiple departments since 2001. Their contributions have supported various initiatives, including the Centre for Community Engaged Learning, the ECE Department, the Faculty of Medicine and Library IT.
The annual Donor Recognition event serves as a reminder of the critical role that technology donations play in fostering digital inclusiveness.
"We couldn't have the impact in the community we do without donors providing their old tech," says Waddington.
For more information about the BC Technology for Learning Society and how to contribute, visit www.reusetechbc.ca.
