Tech Exchange

MISSION: Tech Exchange (formerly known as OTX West) partners with educators and community advocates to provide Internet access solutions that create equity for ALL Bay Area residents. ABOUT US: Tech Exchange is dedicated to eliminating the digital divide in Oakland, California. We seek to enhance educational opportunities and increase the accessibility of technology to low-income members of our community. Tech Exchange recognizes the need for people of all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds to gain access to the digital word by owning a home computer and acquiring technological knowledge and skills in steps toward individual self-sufficiency and empowerment. The organization also employs an environmentally sustainable, re-use model by refurbishing donated personal computers and other technological equipment, and supplying them to new broadband subscribers that successfully complete our training class. We take proactive measures to directly confront persisting inequalities by teaching basic computer skills to parents and children and providing ongoing technical support free of charge. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Since 1995, we have- * Provided 15,000+ computers to Oakland public school families free of charge. * Provided 20,000+ computers to Oakland Public School classrooms, non-profits, and park and recreation centers. * Provided 1,000+ laptop computers to Oakland students and community members. * Diverted over 700 tons of electronic waste from landfills for productive use or responsible recycling.