Growing Up Free

In today's world many of the gadgets we use advertise that they are environmentally friendly. In some cases this is a clever advertising ploy meant to sway those of us who are environmentally conscious to purchase their product. Since there is no single international standard for eco-lables, these are considered vague and meaningless distinctions by the International Organization for Standardization. In other cases it is because of features built into the product such as power saving features in Energy Star compliant lighting, office equipment and appliances.

From a biblical perspective the environment is actually a part of God's creation - of which humanity is also a part. Therefore, caring for God's creation does not just mean caring for nature, nor does it just mean caring for humanity; it means caring for both.

Most major environmental problems such as air pollution and water pollution, hurt people. These problems fight against Christ's reconciliation of all of creation. In many instances they hit the poor, the children, and the elderly the hardest.

Balay San Columbano is a Christian Foundation in the Philippines. It's purpose is to provide safe shelter, food, clothing and education to needy young people who come from a variety of family backgrounds. Some of the young people have been rescued off the street, some from abusive alcoholic homes. Others come from desperately poor families.

Computers for Charity is now an official Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher! No, Microsoft hasn't taken over our operations (thank goodness) or given us a budget (don't I wish). In fact, I still prefer to install Linux operating systems on the computers I rebuild but out of necessity I sometimes have to install a Microsoft OS on the systems due to software compatibility issues.

The future of technology is the Internet and not high end computing. An older refurbished computer can provide that just as well as any newfangled system can. But you say "How can you possibly get any use out of my old outdated Windows box?". Read on...

Providing a child with a computer is a gateway to a whole new level of education. Its one thing for them to work with computers at school to edit documents and learn typing skills. Its' a whole different world that opens up when they have the opportunity to use one at home for recreation and social activities as well. Computing and communication technology continue to make an ever-increasing impact on all aspects of cognition, education and training throughout a child's life.

Simply taking your computer to the nearest recycling center just doesn’t cut it anymore! Though well intentioned, your effort may be in vain. Most recycling centers simply disassemble the equipment ,shred it and melt it down for the precious metals and other raw materials the computers contain. ‘Recycling‘ in this manner consumes 20 times more energy than reuse.