OlyFed Brings Joy to Local Community with Generous Tech Donation to Triceratops Technology

Key Takeaways

• Olympia Federal Savings (OlyFed) has donated a large lot of computers, laptops, and peripheral equipment to Triceratops Technology, a nonprofit organization that aims to remove technology barriers in the community.
• The donated equipment will be used for teaching, gifted to those in need, or donated to local nonprofits and tiny house villages.
• Triceratops Technology accepts donations of equipment, knowledge, and assistance from the community and hosts collection drives year-round.
• The organization believes that removing technology barriers can strengthen the community and appreciates partnerships like the one they’ve forged with OlyFed.
• With the help of Seattle’s PCs for the People, Triceratops Technology collects out-of-date or unneeded equipment and either recycles or refurbishes the items for use back in the community.

Introduction to Triceratops Technology and OlyFed’s Partnership
The spirit of giving is alive and well in Thurston County, thanks to the recent donation of a large lot of computers, laptops, and peripheral equipment from Olympia Federal Savings (OlyFed) to Triceratops Technology. This donation is a significant step towards removing technology barriers in the community, and the equipment will be used for teaching, gifted to those in need, or donated to local nonprofits and tiny house villages. Triceratops Technology believes that accessing technology is vital in today’s digital age, and their mission is to provide digital skills training, youth coding classes, and IT support for nonprofits.

The Importance of Home Computers and Tech Access
It’s estimated that over 33 million Americans either don’t have a home computer or are limited to smartphone usage. However, having a computer, internet plan, and practical experience is crucial for everyday tasks such as work, school, paying bills, applying for benefits, and keeping in touch with family. Triceratops Technology solicits donations to address this issue and provides digital skills training, youth coding classes, and IT support for nonprofits. Recently, OlyFed provided two large donations that will soon find a new home where they’re needed most. Mike Bowen, OlyFed’s EVP and Chief Information Officer, says that Triceratops "was chosen because of the strong alignment that they have with OlyFed’s passion for providing back to our community whenever possible."

The Recycling and Reuse Process
Triceratops Technology, which started in 2018, calls itself a mission-driven nonprofit and volunteer network. Program Manager Azure Sensabaugh says they first saw OlyFed at local events "because they’re really involved in charities and nonprofits in Olympia." They appreciate working with groups like banks because "we find that organizations with a lot of security needs upgrade frequently and either recycle or give away batches of good equipment." OlyFed, who they partnered with through the work of local computer upcycler Mike Kelly, donated two batches of items. The first batch, which consisted of more than 30 laptops and over 50 desktop computers, will be given away through one of Triceratops’ many outreach programs. The second batch included other items like phones, internet routers, and other peripheral equipment.

The Partnership Between OlyFed and Triceratops Technology
Bowen is glad they’ve begun this partnership with Triceratops Technology. "Reducing waste, especially electronic waste is something I personally have a passion for," he explains. "I try to repurpose things wherever possible, especially when it comes to electronics. However, in a day and age where they’re considered disposable, this can be challenging. It can be especially challenging when you have a lot of older equipment, as there are not many places who want to take a large amount outside of e-recyclers. Also being able to repurpose this equipment to get it into the hands of people who need access to technology – something most of us take for granted – is just incredibly important." Sensabaugh says that most of the donated laptops will be given away to attendees in their technology classes, so students can leave with the machine they’ve practiced on.

Donating to Triceratops Technology and Getting Involved
The Triceratops Technology team welcomes donations all year round. You can drop items off at their office, located at 400 Union Avenue SE, suite 200, during business hours. For larger donations or to ask about receiving items for your group or charity, call 253.254.6548 or email [email protected] and they’ll be happy to answer questions. Many of their computer information classes are taught in conjunction with Timberland Regional Library. "Libraries are so important to the success of our program," says Sensabaugh, "for recycling, classes and getting the word out they have been crucial." Are you an IT pro or someone with experience in the field? Consider becoming a volunteer. Or become a community or small business partner like Inspire Olympia.

The Impact of Triceratops Technology and OlyFed’s Partnership
Thanks to Triceratops Technology and OlyFed, this holiday season will be brighter for many families across Thurston County. The partnership between these two organizations is a significant step towards removing technology barriers in the community, and their efforts will have a lasting impact on the lives of many individuals and families. By providing digital skills training, youth coding classes, and IT support for nonprofits, Triceratops Technology is helping to bridge the technology gap and create a more equitable and connected community. As the organization continues to grow and expand its services, it’s clear that their mission and partnership with OlyFed will have a profound impact on the community for years to come.