Eleven years have passed in the Foundation’s fight for bridging the digital divide. Great progress has been realized because of the strong support of the community and a great cadre of volunteers. Thank you all.

Ronda Evans and Bruce McComb

Computer Recycling: The MAR (Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher) program became available and RECA met the prerequisites (recycling history of 100 or more computers a year to the digital technology “have-nots”). RECA was one of the first non-profit organizations in the country to qualify for the program. Since January, 2003 nearly 100 Windows 2000 computers have been issued to low income families, people with disabilities, and non-profit agencies. Over 50 Beginning Computers were recycled this year to children and first time computer users. The Foundation became a Verizon Foundation e-partner offering low and no-cost computer related educational opportunities for area non-profit staff.

Tech Fair: In September, RECA sponsored a Tech Fair for non-profits at the United Ways, with assistance from the Volunteer Center, Kennewick Community Education, and Bob Peters and Associates. See https://www.tcfn.org/techfair/index.html for resources that can help non-profit organizations and individuals better use technology.Computer Fairs: In the Fall, RECA set up computer fairs at the Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and Walla Walla Housing Authorities. The Beginning Computer model was demonstrated and sold. The Internet Ready Computer was also demonstrated and families signed up to receive one at a later date. Participants were also given the opportunity to bring in their own computers for a free evaluation. See https://www.tcfn.org/techfair/computerfair.html for details. About 120 families participated, 50 Beginning Computers were distributed, 50 signed up for Internet Ready Computers, and 20 computer assessments were made and most repaired and/or upgraded..

Success Stories: See https://www.tcfn.org/techfair/Success/success.html and

https://www.tcfn.org/techfair/Success/ctc.html.

Program Development: For years, RECA and CBPIN have worked toward providing on-line community resources. This year, RECA committed to management of the 4people database for Benton and Franklin Counties. The goal is to populate this database by the end of 2005 and be ready for a local 211 call center to use it for information and referral.

Financials: See http://www.recafoundation.org/2003/2003%20Financials.pdf.

Ronda Evans