electronic waste

Today we want to spotlight a business that helps you get rid of electronic waste, helps the environment, and helps the people they serve:  Tech 4 Troops!

Tech For Troops was started in Richmond, Virginia by a mother and son team who were passionate about military veterans in need, and wanted to do something to help. In 2013 after hearing about the force reductions and a huge number of returning soldiers, they decided to collect used PCs and Macs, refurbish them, and provide them to veterans’ support organizations.

Since then, they’ve grown to supporting veterans nationwide and continue to look for ways to offer workforce support and training. Many veterans face two significant barriers when competing in the modern workforce: the lack of a computer and the lack of the skills needed to effectively use that computer.  T4T supports these veterans by collecting used technology that would usually end up in landfills, then refurbishing the laptops and other devices.

They are always looking for:

–  Working and non-working laptops with power adapters

–  Desktop computers

–  Working flat panel monitors

–  iPads and tablets

–  Cell phones

–  Keyboards, mice, and other computer parts

–  File servers and networking equipment

–  Wiring (Cat5 and Cat6)

–  All other electronics you are throwing away

So go find that box of accumulated old electronics in your closet, or recent computer that you’ve let get dusty after upgrading to a new model.  If you’re in the Richmond area, you can donate your items by taking them to Tech For Troops, 4840 Waller Road, Richmond, VA 23230.  Or you can use a “Give Back Box” for a small fee, fill it with up to 25 pounds of accepted items, and drop the box off at UPS or FedEx for shipment to Tech for Troops. More information about this special organization can be found at Teck4Troops.org!

E-waste accounts for up to 70% of hazardous waste in landfills. T4T has responsibly recycled over 750 tons of e-waste, using an R2 certified recycling company. Now’s a great time to pass along your electronic equipment to benefit others!