Local Nonprofits Share Efforts to Help People

Nov. 20, 2011 - PRLog -- Two nonprofit organizations in Eugene, OR have joined forces to support each others’ symbiotic missions. Oregon Supported Living Program (OSLP) provides quality residential and vocational services to men and women in Lane County who have developmental disabilities. Many individuals receiving those services now have access to new skills and technology because of the organization’s partnership with NextStep Recycling, which has gifted nine OSLP clients with a Technology Grant of desktop computers and introductory computer training, and will be doing the same for six more clients this Saturday, November 19th.

NextStep educates and empowers marginalized populations by providing refurbished computers that allow access to technology and the Internet. They recycle computer hardware and other electronics, keeping hazardous waste out of our soil and water. OSLP offers programs to people with developmental disabilities that are designed not only to meet the person’s needs but just as importantly, to allow him or her to realize their desires, wishes and dreams. The two organizations are planning to continue this relationship and the connection of OSLP clients with technology and training through NextStep’s Digital Literacy Training Center.

The arrangement is rewarding to all parties. It helps OSLP achieve its mission of providing support in ways that will enhance the physical, mental and spiritual well-being of those we serve while providing each individual with the opportunity to become integral members of the community. It supports NextStep Recycling’s mission of providing technology and training to children and adults who have barriers to employment and education, while protecting our environment and community from hazardous waste. Since government funding of vocational programs and recycling programs is unstable, support from other organizations, companies and friends is vital to the sustainability of such enriching services.

"We are dedicated to supporting all community members connection to the wide world. As communication tools become more and more digital, many of our community who can not afford the hardware are being left behind. OSLP works diligent to support individuals with disabilities and NextStep's focus on digital literacy is a perfect partnership", said Lorraine Kerwood, NextStep Recycling's Executive Director.

The Technology Grants have made a notable difference in the lives of its recipients. The computers were donated to NextStep Recycling by businesses and individuals in the community. NextStep is a Microsoft Register Refurbisher, so each computer is complete, up to date operating systems, and distributed to OSLP clients who have never had access to the unlimited benefits many people with computers take for granted. Smiles were abundant as the men and women found connections to their friends, instructional websites, music and movies at their fingertips. Marilyn, a 63 year old woman living in OSLP’s Friendly House, is deaf and uses sign language to communicate. She is learning quickly how to navigate her PC. At NextStep’s Digital Literacy Training Center, “ePower Our Community (ePOC),” she used a computer mouse for the first time, watched sign language videos and saw pictures of herself on OSLP’s website.

Visit NextStep's Facebook page to see some of the photos of the computer placements at http://www.goo.gl/kMjEe

More information about Oregon Supported Living Program:  http://www.oslp.org
About NextStep Recycling:  http://www.nextsteprecycling.org

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NextStep educates and empowers marginalized populations by providing refurbished computers that allow access to technology and the Internet. NextStep recycles computer hardware and other electronics, keeping hazardous waste out of our soil and water.

Photo:
https://www.prlog.org/11729041/1