Talking about giving often sounds cliché or disingenuous. We’ve all heard about the importance of giving back countless times. However, the reason this message persists is rooted in the profound impact that giving can have on the lives of those in need.
The good things in our lives often involve the support and assistance of others. Whether it’s the encouragement of a mentor, the help of a friend in times of need, or the guidance of a teacher, our lives are enriched by the generosity of those around us. This naturally leads to a desire to give back and help others in return.
A Lifelong Desire to Make a Difference
For some, the desire to give back starts at a young age. This was certainly the case for me. Early on, I had a desire to work with young people, a commitment I pursued during college and beyond. While the work was rewarding, it wasn’t something that I wanted to make a career out of. When I founded ITAMG in 1999, my desire to help continued.
ITAMG’s Unique Opportunity
As the company grew a different kind of opportunity to make a difference presented itself. With tens of thousands of laptops, PCs, and monitors coming through our doors annually as part of our IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) services, we had a valuable resource at our disposal. Why not take some of these devices and give them to children who need them?
Overcoming Challenges
While it was simple for us to donate equipment ourselves, the challenge was getting other corporations to do the same. Many companies have strict policies against donating equipment, primarily due to legitimate data security concerns. However, ITAMG was uniquely positioned to address these concerns, as we already had robust data security measures in place. It was merely a matter of repurposing some of the equipment in a different way.
Making a Significant Impact
The decision to provide laptops and computers to students in need has had a significant impact. While listening to a radio interview in November with Brian Lehrer, the staggering statistic that 1 in 9 students in the NYC school system would experience homelessness during the school year came to light. This amounts to around 100,000 students in need of support. ITAMG’s initiative to provide technology to these students can be a game-changer, giving them access to essential tools for learning, connecting with the world, and preparing for their futures. This is why we are trying to enlist the help of other corporations.
A Journey of Impact
My personal journey has shown me that giving back doesn’t have to be cliché or insincere. It’s a powerful force for good that can change lives. ITAMG’s story is a testament to the impact we can make when we address the unique needs of our community. By sharing my personal experience, I hope to inspire others to find their own ways to contribute to a brighter future. The value of giving is immeasurable, and I believe it’s something we can all embrace in our own way.