Goodwill, Dell partner to recycle computers

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Reconnect, a free dropoff program to recycle computers, launched this week in the Rochester area.
Dell Inc. and the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired-Goodwill of Greater Rochester Inc. have partnered to create the program for consumers to reuse and recycle unwanted electronics.
Proceeds from resale value of donations will be returned to ABVI-Goodwill Industries to support its mission of creating job opportunities for individuals with barriers to employment, Dell officials said.
The program is free, and any brand computer can be donated, officials said. Consumers are responsible for removing data from hard drives and other storage media before donating to Goodwill. ABVI-Goodwill staff will provide donors with a donation receipt at the time of donation, officials said.
The program aims to divert 300,000 pounds of used computers and computer equipment from area landfills over the next year, and provide consumer education on the importance of environmentally-responsible computer disposal.
Reconnect also creates job opportunities for individuals with disabilities and other employment barriers, officials said.
“ABVI-Goodwill is pleased to begin the operational phase of our partnership with Dell,” said Gidget Hopf, president and chief executive officer of ABVI-Goodwill. “This exciting new program is a reflection of our commitment to what we call the triple bottom line – people, profit and planet. The program will create jobs, add revenue, and contribute significantly and positively to our environment.”
Participating Greater Rochester Goodwill locations are located at Bay Centre in Webster, Jefferson Plaza in Henrietta, Stone Ridge Plaza in Greece, South Clinton Avenue downtown and in Brockport, as well as the donation center in Egypt Plaza in Fairport. For details, visit www.reconnectpartnership.com.
The Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired-Goodwill of Greater Rochester Inc., founded in 1911, has a mission to prepare and empower people who are blind or visually impaired to be self-sufficient and contribute to their families and communities.

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