Monthly Update - March 2023
March has already come and gone, and boy, what a busy year end it was! Thanks to the hard work of our technicians, we were able to get over 950 computers out the door last month ahead of our annual inventory count. You guys are rockstars!
Our fiscal year ended on March 31st. During the course of the year we received 1231 applications for equipment and distributed 5660 computers and laptops across BC. Where they went by client group is shown in the pie chart.
We distributed 351 computers/laptops through the Internet for Good clients and another 276 through the Computers for Students program.
In April, the Computers for Students program will be rebranded to Tech for Home as many people needing equipment in the home, like seniors, need it for communication, information and entertainment purposes, rather than strictly educational purposes. It’s important for us to meet our clients where they are at in helping them cross the digital divide.
This month we were able to bring back Lunch and Learn, where we host professionals working in information technology over lunch so that they can share job insights and tips with our interns. This month, Bob Seeman from CyberCurb came out to share a variety of options for those interested in careers in cybersecurity. Thanks for your time, Bob! We know our interns found a lot of value in your talk.
We had 7 new donors find us in the month of March. Thank you to Anthem Properties Group, Graham Construction, Jungle Scout, Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers, Sanderson & Welsh Planning LTD., TLC Solutions, and Uncommon Purpose for taking the time to find a sustainable way to retire your company’s old tech.
Michel rocking some BC Tech merch.
Close to the end of the month we hosted our first Featured Friday Garage Sale, where clients received invitations to come pick out free and low-cost technology from our workshop. This event was a huge success and we hope to do more of them this year!
Michel Langelier, the new Executive Director at Computers for Success Canada (CFSC-OPEC) stopped by for a tour of our warehouse and workshop as part of a national tour learning more about the different needs and challenges of the Computers for Schools Plus affiliates in Ontario, New Brunswick, Manitoba and BC. Thanks for visiting, Michel, you look great in our swag!
Finally, we’re back with another instalment of our Meet Our Team series - this month introducing Jim King who is celebrating 4 years at BC Tech as of April, 2023.
Meet Our Team
Director of Donor Relations: Jim King
What is your role at BC Tech and what do you do on a daily basis?
I am the Director of Donor Relations. My role is to keep up with the correspondence from current donors, identify and recruit potential donors through awareness campaigns, attending community events and ‘door to door’ outreach, and facilitate the arrival of incoming donations to the warehouse. In a nutshell; I get the gear.
Tell me about your previous roles and experiences prior to coming to BC Tech.
I’ve done a variety of sales jobs including cameras for Sears and a 20+ year career working in the Medical/Surgical Supply Industry. In between that I was in banking. I’ve been able to transfer a lot of my sales and networking skills into the Donor Relations role.
What do you like about working at BC Tech?
For me it’s the sense of purpose, not just a paycheque. I feel I am doing my part in helping bridge the digital divide, assisting those with small wallets attain technology to live in a fairer world. Speaking of the world, I’m proud to be part of a team helping make it a bit greener.
As well, the staff are terrific!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
Eating. BBQing. Rating Craft Beer and Fine Wine. Working out. Hiking. Travel. Hanging out with friends and family.
Do you have any interesting fun facts?
I had my picture on the front page of the Toronto Star when I was 1.
How do you approach building relationships with new donors?
I always try to make the donation process as simple as possible, while at the same time helping the donor see what a positive impact their donation has on the community.
What are some challenges you face with collecting technology donations?
We (I) really appreciate it when the donors help with the packing and loading of the pick up vehicles.
The steady march of ‘progress’ brings the rapid rise of obsolescence with it. I need to be on top of events to determine what is refurbishable and what is just recyclable.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you ever received?
My first boss told me not to hide my mistakes, but to fix them instead.
Your Donations Matter.
