Gemmis Technologies refurbished old computers and donated them to Peace Corps Volunteers stationed in remote, underdeveloped countries.
These volunteers work as ambassadors for the United States, tackling sustainable development issues while promoting understanding and good relations between America and the assigned country. The computers will be used by volunteers to teach basic computer skills to young adults with limited access to most modern technology.
“These kind of donations are essential to the volunteers and the countries they serve in,” says former Peace Corps Volunteer Jessica Geraci.
This shipment of laptops went to Vanuatu, an island nation in the South Pacific.
“The kids that will get to use these laptops have never touched a computer before.” Says Geraci. “It’s a new experience for them and it can lead to a better education and better job prospects.”
After a computer has been donated, one of the technicians at Gemmis cleans it up. They wipe any old information from the laptop and wipe the hard drive completely. This hard drive wipe means the computer runs faster and more efficiently. After everything has been cleaned up, a technician reinstalls things like windows and anti-virus programs. They then ship these laptops to the volunteers.
“We are always looking for ways to give back,” says Gemmis co-founder Jeff Ferrio. “When we help a business succeed we believe it benefits the entire community. When we help the community, on both a local and global scale, we know that helps us succeed to.”
Past charity work by Gemmis has included free computer classes in underdeveloped parts of D.C. and Maryland, charity events and runs, and more. If you’d like to donate a laptop, you can contact Gemmis at www.gemmistech.com or 703-942-9928.
