IBM & United Way Provide Technology Boost to Local Charities and Nonprofit Organizations

Tech company to donate computer systems through United Way In-Kind Program

Austin, Texas – (November 29, 2007) – Today, United Way Capital Area and IBM Corp. helped expand digital access by ensuring that 27 social service agencies throughout Central Texas receive leading-edge computer systems. IBM generously donated 38 computers and Young Explorer systems (valued at $59,384) to charitable agencies in Central Texas, including nonprofits, day care centers, and public schools.

Recipient organizations provide services in one or more of the following areas: youth education opportunities/early learning programs; community and family services; support for the disabled/disadvantaged; adult services (i.e. literacy and job training); and youth development programs.

“This is another example of IBM’s strong commitment to the community. For years, IBM has helped support nonprofits through this grant for more than seven years. IBM is a philanthropic leader in the community for others to follow,” said David Balch, President and Chief Professional Officer, United Way Capital Area.

The computers will be donated Friday, November 30, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the United Way Resource Center (310 Comal St., Austin, TX).

Armando Rayo, Director of Hands On Central Texas said, “One of our goals is to build capacity for nonprofits in Central Texas. The IBM grant allows us to do this every year, helping small and large nonprofits meet their missions.”

IBM’s total donation includes the Young Explorer systems, computers loaded with educational software and housed in colorful children’s desk furniture. The Young Explorer systems are part of the IBM KidSmart Early Learning Program which includes specially developed educational materials for teachers.
Young Explorer systems will help give children in childcare centers a jump-start on their education and computer readiness.

This is the seventh year Hands On Central Texas has managed the selection and distribution process.

Recipients of the 2007 IBM Technology Grants are:

Sammy’s House
Casa Garcia
Wesley School
YMCA of Austin
Boys & Girls Club of South Central Texas
The Austin Academy
Cancer Connection
Center for Child Protection
SAHELI
Truelight Day Care
Fisherman Ministries of Austin, Inc.
Advocacy Outreach
Austin Habitat for Humanity
Interagency Support Council of East Williamson County
Latinitas

United Way Capital Area
2000 E. MLK Jr. Blvd.
Austin, TX 78702

Andy Buck
andy.buck@unitedwaycapitalarea.org
512-472-6267

United Way Capital Area (UWCA) is focused on narrowing the opportunity gap in Central Texas between those who are getting ahead and those who are falling behind. By engaging our community around critical social issues—and helping individuals and companies lend their talent, time, and treasure—United Way Capital Area aims to help make lasting change. The community has identified three areas it believes UWCA should address in order to make long-term change: Education, Financial Stability, and Individual and Community Health. UWCA maintains several programs critical to our community’s success: Hands On Central Texas (the volunteer center), 2-1-1 (the free phone line for information and referral for social services), and Success By 6 (which brings together more than 80 organizations to improve the lives of young children in our community).

This release was published on openPR.