Closing the Digital Divide Among Disable People

Nov. 5, 2009 - PRLog -- Frederick, MD,.............. Society’s dependence of technology is ever-increasing, however not many strides are being made to help ensure that people with disabilities are not being left behind.  Part of the problem is fear that those who are mentally or physically challenged may misuse or damage computers.  Additionally, many of those with disabilities are intimidated by technology and shy away from its use.

Eric Zimmerman, who has Asperger Syndrome, a high-functioning form or autism, recognized these issues and started The Buddy Project as a means to provide computers and training to those with disabilities.  

“I used to work with Best Buddies International, and organization that helps to place the disabled in one-on-one friendships with others, and I noticed that most of Best Buddies’ clients did not have e-mail addresses.  That sparked the idea for me to help get the disabled community up to speed with technology,” said Zimmerman, who has a Cisco computer certification.

Zimmerman established The Buddy Project in October of 2007 and set about soliciting used computers from local colleges, universities, and high schools.  He refurbishes the machines and distributes them to those who are disabled.  To date he has put125 computers in to service, and will expand his services this year by also offering computer training with the help of grant funding from the Ausherman Family Foundation.  Zimmerman plans to keep his clients on the cutting edge of technology by providing them with new machines every two years.  

The Buddy Project is headquartered in Frederick, MD, and mostly services the local community.  Zimmerman envisions expanding the operation throughout the east coast, and eventually nationwide.  The organization will host its second annual fundraiser, The Buddy Project Ball: Underwater Fantasea, on Thursday, November 19, 2009 to help make Zimmerman’s vision a reality.

The black tie dinner will be held at Ceresville Mansion in Frederick, MD, from 6:30 – 11:00 pm.  The night’s agenda also includes an auction of sports paraphernalia such as autographed jerseys, helmets, posters and footballs that boast the signatures of Baltimore Ravens and Washington Redskins football players like Chris Cooley, Clinton Portis, Joe Flacco, Santana Moss and others.

23 Days Rewind cover band will provide entertainment, performing a blend of 80’s, 90’s, alternative and today’s electronica.  The band has toured the USA and opened for Modern English, Violent Femmes and members of Fuel.

Individual tickets to the event is $50, tables are $400.  The Buddy Project’s goal is to raise $5,000 and to distribute 150 computers.  Tickets can be purchased at: http://www.thebuddyproject.net/ball.  


About The Buddy Project
The Buddy Project is a 501(c)3 that provides refurbished computers to those who are intellectually and developmentally challenged.  These individuals have limited access to technology due to limited knowledge and interaction.  The Buddy Project seeks to help make people with intellectual and developmental disabilities more independent in the community, and in the workplace.