Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
In today's technologically-advanced world, a computer is a very beneficial resource. Neighborhood downtown residents around the Multicultural Family Center (supported by the Iowa State University Dubuque County Extension) expressed the need for computers in their homes. The Center has been providing access to computers in the Center; however, the hours, location, and popularity of the computers have made it difficult to serve all the needs of families.

Response:
To receive a computer, families need to fill out an application and submit it to the Multicultural Family Center where it is reviewed and prioritized by a selection committee. Emphasis is given to families with middle and senior high students, seniors over the age of 65, and participants of Dislocated Workers, Promise Jobs, Family Self-Sufficiency, Workforce Investment Act and Getting Ahead programs.

When the Center receives the computers from the City, a student from Loras College downloads an operating system and prepares them to be sent. Recycled computers consist of a tower, keyboard, monitor and speakers plus basic software. Computer applicants are asked to come to the Multicultural Family Center for a one-hour orientation. Families who get computers must agree to the tracking of the computer by serial number, no re-sell, and in the event the computer malfunctions or quits working, return it for proper recycling.

Impact:
To-date, the Multicultural Family Center has received 20 computers for recycling; 17 have gone to neighborhood residents and 3 are being utilized in the Multicultural Family Center. Eight applicants are on a waiting list and the goal is to get computers into the homes of all residents who apply.

After a six-month review, plans are to extend this program by finding other sources of recycled computers and reach out to the other two downtown neighborhoods. Currently, the families are being surveyed and one recipient said, "I am grateful to have a computer...my family and friends are always showing me new things I can do with it and I just really appreciate having it." Other participants comments included:
"Thank you so much -it's just been such a big help, I use it all the time!"
"My kids know a lot more about this than I do! I know they'll help me out."
"God bless you, thank you!"
"I can't wait to get this on the internet....thank you so much!"

Families have ranged from a single mother with 5 children (3 in middle or high school) to a senior aged 66 who wanted the computer for medical purposes and ordering household items. Participants who have received the recycled computers have been a mix of races, languages, gender, and disabilities - it has been a very successful project reaching many downtown neighborhood families. In addition to benefiting families, the recycled computers are saving the environment and increasing sustainability.

Additional Team Members or Community Partners:
Maddy Cairney, Multicultural Family Center
VISTA
Dan Kurt, Loras Student

Contact:
Beverly Berna
Dubuque County Extension
14858 West Ridge Lane
Dubuque, IA 52003
563-583-6496
bberna@iastate.edu