The digital divide in Chicago is not just about Internet access and access to digital learning opportunities. It’s also about hardware. Not every Chicagoan or Chicago household has the tools it needs to succeed in the digital age, even if the question of Internet access is in place.
Here is one piece of a longer infographic we published recently:
Some of Chicago’s households don’t have computing devices or, if they do, they rely exclusively on handheld devices. Imagine relying on a phone to apply to college, apply for jobs, or create content. A recent piece from Shorenstein also points out that mobile devices hold residents back when it comes to civic information and news consumption.
Device lending programs get computers into the hands of students and households who might not have had them before. Computer refurbishing programs also insert lower cost devices into our ecosystem and can help narrow technology access divides. Programs like PC Rebuilders & Refurbishers (PCRR) and FreeGeek Chicago take donated, used devices, refurbish them, and sell them for discounted rates. This can be an easier way for individuals and even institutions to get the hardware they need.
At our last Connect Chicago Meetup we explored these programs and also learned about how to buy refurbished devices — what certifications to look for, prices and quality to expect, and the overall benefits. Sarah Cade from PCRR led the discussion and created resources for digital inclusion practitioners and trainers across Chicago.
Here is Sarah’s presentation:
Before you buy a refurbished computer, make sure you know what software is included. Thanks @PCRR1 for the tip! #connectchicago
— CCLC (@ChiCityLiteracy) October 28, 2016
When selecting a refurbishing company, ask how they do it and ask about certifications. #ConnectChicago pic.twitter.com/i36FLayxaK
— Heidi Massey (@HeidiEKMassey) October 28, 2016
It’s illegal to throw out a computer in IL. Places like @PCRR1 & @freegeekchicago will refurbish devices & update software. #connectchicago
— Smart Chicago (@SmartChicago) October 28, 2016
Sarah also shared PCRR’s “What Device is Right for You?” guide to help people just starting to invest in personal devices and technology.
All of the resources that Sarah has created will be incorporated onto the new Connect Chicago website, a page aggregating information on digital inclusion resources, stories, and programs in Chicago.
At the Meetup we learned that, in addition to churning refurbished devices for people and nonprofits, PCRR also tries to be inclusive in its employment and training. At the Meetup, we learned that about half of PCRR employees are ex-offenders.
~1/2 of @PCRR1 warehouse workers & entry level technicians/refurbishers are ex-offenders @SarahMCade #connectchicago pic.twitter.com/wstZMftYo1
— Denise Linn (@DKLinn) October 28, 2016
.@PCRR1 wants to promote local jobs & teach new technology skills to people who have different levels of #digitalskills. #connectchicago
— Smart Chicago (@SmartChicago) October 28, 2016
Below are pictures from the Connect Chicago Meetup:
More Connect Chicago Meetup resources:
- The main Meetup presentation
- The Connect Chicago Meetup Google Folder (with all notes & presentations from all Meetups):
- The Connect Chicago website where you can find more digital inclusion tools and resources:
- The City of Chicago’s Computer Recycling Facility Overview
Here is a video of the entire Meetup:
Thank you to all who joined us for this important conversation! The digital inclusion field in Chicago is a vibrant group of advocates and practitioners. We learn so much and leverage more resources when we work together. To join the Connect Chicago Meetup community, go to our Meetup page.
