Computers for Charities began with a thought that refused to go away. That thought remains Vivid and stems back to life altering experiences gained in 1992 when assisting with humanitarian aid distribution in war torn Bosnia, and provided a wake up call in respect of appreciating the preciousness of life which hangs by such a delicate thread.
This thought became crystallized as a hobby in 1994, initially operating from the confines of a cramped loft in a bungalow, then sheds, garages, barns and today an established pioneering International organisation that now offers advice to governments and offer’s support to Charities, Churches and NGO’S worldwide.
It began with a simple concept and a solution to the practice of consigning millions of UK Computers too landfill each year. A real waste when good can be gained through reuse.
Back then CfC only worked with UK Charities and Voluntary organisations, providing support and advice with refurbished computer equipment. However over the intervening years CfC has adapted, grown and diversified wholly in response to invitation rather than seeking needy or good causes to assist, whilst also responding to the actual rather than perceived need of groups or organisations in a variety of ways.
African Schools on Line our schools educational program is one such example. The program described by The Department for International Development (DFID) “as a hands on, grass level approach organisation developing projects that have relevance and are one of the few that actually work”
My professional background is actually that of Psychiatry not I.T and may appear unorthodox; hence whilst some view CfC as a computer nirvana my personal ethos and Vision throughout remains focused on People and empowerment, with computers rated solely as tools. Hence the essence of aiding development, be it education, skills or standing side by side is a heart felt process not a binary process!
Back in 1994 It was impossible to foresee that Computers for Charities would develop to this extent, what you see on this website represents just a small part of a growing Vision that has thus far touched many continents and thousands of lives. Also it does not happen over night; it takes time, commitment, life changes and perseverance to stay the course.
For me it remains humbling and a privilege to have experienced the range of cultures and such diverse issues. From developing Prison workshops in the UK to experiencing the poverty and hardship faced in the African bush or slum areas of Mumbai. To this end continued support from Companies in providing equipment and sponsorship or the solid varied expertise gained from Volunteer support is paramount.
It is thanks to readers like you that major inroads have been achieved during our very short history. For me though frustration continues on a daily occurrence, so much need, limited resources and so much to do.
Please contact us here http://corporate.computersforcharities.org/
Founder of Computers for Charities
Thank you
Simon Rooksby
Chairman / Founder – Computers for Charities
