In an effort to bridge the digital divide affecting over 300,000 residents without a home computer, North Carolina's Department of Information Technology (NCDIT) is teaming up with Kramden Institute and the NC TECH Association for a tech collection event—Device Drive 2025. According to an announcement made by the NCDIT, the drive is set for October 3rd, seeking to revitalize old digital devices for educational and professional use. The campaign highlights the essential nature of tech in today's society for "education, health care, workforce participation, and civic engagement," as stated by NCDIT Deputy Secretary for Broadband and Digital Opportunity, Annette Taylor.
This Device Drive 2025 is not just a call to action for individuals, but also for businesses to step up, donate their surplus technology and in making a difference, it's being held at 4000 West Chase Boulevard in Raleigh, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kramden Institute, known for its expertise in data security and device refurbishment, will take the lead on ensuring that all devices are cleansed of old data and made ready for new hands, with Executive Director Cyndy Yu-Robinson emphasizing the impact of every single device donated which will serve as a crucial tool for North Carolinians in pursuing job opportunities, furthering education, or reaching out for health services.
The NC TECH Association, with its extensive network of corporate associates, is backing the initiative, pushing companies to contribute their outdated technology, as part of their corporate social responsibility, "Businesses upgrade technology all the time — this is an easy way to make a lasting impact on North Carolina’s digital future," remarked NC TECH Association President and CEO Brooks Raiford. For residents and corporations interested, the process remains simple: bring your used desktops, laptops or tablets to the designated drop-off location on the day of the event or get in touch with the Kramden Institute for large-scale contributions and possible pickups, as per NCDIT.
For more information on the Device Drive 2025 and how to participate, people and corporations alike are encouraged to visit kramden.org.
