Triceratops believes that removing technology barriers can strengthen the community and greatly appreciates partnerships like the one they’ve forged with OlyFed. They also accept donations of equipment, knowledge and assistance from the community, hosting collection drives year-round.

Home Computers are Vital, OlyFed and Triceratops Technology are Here to Help

It’s estimated that more than 33 million Americans either don’t have a home computer or are limited to smartphone usage. But tech access and know-how are vital these days. Work, school, paying bills, applying for benefits, keeping in touch with family and even streaming entertainment requires a computer, internet plan and plenty of practical experience.

To help, Triceratops Technology solicits donations which are then used in multiple ways. They teach digital skills training and youth coding classes, provide IT support for nonprofits and work to expand free public wi-fi in local shelters.

Recently, OlyFed provided two large donations that will soon find a new home where they’re needed most. Mike Bowen, OlyFed’s EVP and Chief Information Officer, says that Triceratops “was chosen because of the strong alignment that they have with OlyFed’s passion for providing back to our community whenever possible. I’m very appreciative of everything that Triceratops does and their programs to help our communities and non-profit organizations out with technology.”

Recycle, Reuse, Rejuvenate Aging Computers and More with Triceratops Technology

Triceratops, which started in 2018, calls itself a mission-driven nonprofit and volunteer network. Program Manager Azure Sensabaugh says they first saw OlyFed at local events “because they’re really involved in charities and nonprofits in Olympia.” They appreciate working with groups like banks because “we find that organizations with a lot of security needs upgrade frequently and either recycle or give away batches of good equipment,” she explains.

OlyFed, who they partnered with through the work of local computer upcycler Mike Kelly, donated two batches of items. The first, which consisted of more than 30 laptops and over 50 desktop computers, will be given away through one of Triceratops’ many outreach programs.

The second batch, like their many technology recycling drives, included other items like phones, internet routers and other peripheral equipment. PCs for People, which has a new location in Seattle, helps sort and test items for either reuse or recycling. Triceratops has worked with PCs for People several times including two technology drives as well as some shared grant writing. One recent grant from Project Connect with the Community Foundation of South Puget Sound supported digital skills classes for anyone wanting hands-on training.

Giving Back for the Holidays and Every Day with OlyFed

Bowen is glad they’ve begun this partnership with Triceratops Technology. “Reducing waste, especially electronic waste, is something I personally have a passion for,” he explains. “I try to repurpose things wherever possible, especially when it comes to electronics. However, in a day and age where they’re considered disposable, this can be challenging. It can be especially challenging when you have a lot of older equipment, as there are not many places that want to take a large amount outside of e-recyclers. Also being able to repurpose this equipment to get it into the hands of people who need access to technology – something most of us take for granted – is just incredibly important.”

Sensabaugh says that most of the donated laptops will be given away to attendees in their technology classes, so students can leave with the machine they’ve practiced on. Older laptops, thanks to the work of folks like Mike Kelly, are cleaned and have their operating system updated so they function like a basic, user-friendly Chromebook.

The donated desktop computers have been installed in low-income housing or tiny-house villages. They’ll also be given to nonprofits and other charitable groups needing a solid system and Triceratops offers IT and troubleshooting help to these groups.

Getting New Tech Toys for Christmas? Give Back and Donate Your Older Models Today

The Triceratops Technology team welcomes donations all year round. You can drop items off at their office, located at 400 Union Avenue SE, Suite 200, during business hours. For larger donations or to ask about receiving items for your group or charity, call (253)254-6548 or email contact@triceratops-tech.com and they’ll be happy to answer questions.

Many of their computer information classes are taught in conjunction with Timberland Regional Library. “Libraries are so important to the success of our program,” says Sensabaugh, “for recycling, classes and getting the word out they have been crucial.”

Are you an IT pro or someone with experience in the field? Consider becoming a volunteer. Or become a community or small business partner like Inspire Olympia. Information about donation drives or upcoming classes can be found on the Triceratops Facebook and Instagram pages.

Sure, accessing the internet through your phone is handy in a pinch. But for longer term ease of use, often with added security, having a system at home can save the day. Thanks to Triceratops Technology and OlyFed, this holiday season will be brighter for many families across Thurston County.