Computers have become a mainstay in most of our lives. We bank on them, start businesses on them - even make friends on them. But many people can’t take advantage of what a computer has to offer due to finances. For a child or a young adult just starting out in the world, this puts them at an incredible disadvantage nowadays.

Lorraine Kenwood, who started NextStep Recycling was one of those disadvantaged youths. In addition to lack of finances, Kenwood was diagnosed with autism as a child. She pursued higher education and realized she had a real knack for repairing computers. That’s when NextStep began - a program where refurbished computers are gifted to families in need.

According to the NextStep website:

As of the end of January 2007, NextStep Recycling had, with the help of hundreds of volunteers and community support, responsibly recycled more than 800 tons of electronic waste, and refurbished over 10,000 computers and other electronic devices - placing them with people who would not otherwise have access to this technology.

Lorraine Kenwood, Founder of Next Step

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