Digital Inclusion Week: Practical Ways to Expand Tech Opportunity
By Allison Katarski, Compudopt CEO
For many of us, access to technology is so second nature that we don’t think twice when we reach for our laptops to make an appointment, check a credit card statement, or update a spreadsheet for work. For the millions of American families that don’t have access to a reliable computer or internet connection, though, those everyday tasks come with inconveniences and roadblocks.
Digital Inclusion Week is an apt time to recognize that while we’ve made meaningful progress toward bridging the digital divide, there are still too many individuals and families on the other side of the gap, missing out on education, social connection, meaningful employment and more.
Whether you’re looking to make an impact as an individual or with your team, here are practical ways you can get involved this week:
1. Take a look at the unused technology around you.
Most of us have an old phone, laptop or tablet sitting in a drawer or storage room at home or work. Individually, these devices may seem insignificant. At scale, they contribute to one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. Meanwhile, millions of people in the U.S. alone still lack access to the technology needed to participate in today’s digital-driven society.
One of the simplest actions you can take this week is to identify the technology that is no longer being used and explore responsible ways to donate, refurbish or recycle it.
2. Rethink what “end of life” means for your business technology.
Many organizations replace computers every three to five years for operational, software or security reasons. But the retirement of a device doesn’t mean it doesn’t still have value and use.
Through Compudopt’s IT Asset Disposition (ITAD+) program, we securely erase data, refurbish viable devices and redirect technology into under-served communities where it creates lasting impact.
Responsible technology reuse helps keep devices out of landfills while simultaneously increasing access to education, social connection, workforce development resources, healthcare access and so much more.
Transform your routine business process into meaningful community impact.
3. Remember that access is only the beginning.
Having a computer to call your own is an important first step, but lasting digital inclusion doesn’t stop there.
Families may still need affordable internet, digital skills training, technical support and guidance on how to use technology to achieve their goals. Whether it’s finding a new job, helping a child succeed in school or navigating healthcare systems, true digital inclusion requires an ecosystem of support.
Explore partnering with Compudopt for technology education programs and digital skill-building classes.
4. Find your role.
One of the most encouraging aspects of our mission is that everyone has a way to contribute.
- Government leaders can invest in digital opportunity initiatives and partnerships.
- Nonprofits can serve as trusted bridges to communities.
- Businesses can donate their technology assets, champion volunteer programs and contribute meaningful financial investment.
- Individuals can donate technology, volunteer their tech expertise and advocate for greater access in their communities.
None of us will bridge the digital divide alone, but we can make a meaningful impact together.
