The Center for Nonprofit Management Launches Online Exchange System That Matches Technology Equipment to Nonprofit Organizations; Aidmatrix Foundation, World Computer Exchange, DFW Technology Help Make Program Possible.

DALLAS -- The Center for Nonprofit Management in Dallas has launched the Strategic Technology Exchange Program (STEP), an online system that matches technology equipment donated by individuals and businesses with nonprofit organizations in the Dallas-Ft. Worth Metroplex that are in need of technology hardware.

STEP, a partnership between the Center, The Aidmatrix Foundation, Inc., World Computer Exchange and DFW Technology, provides nonprofits a one-stop system for low-cost acquisition of quality, refurbished hardware. To be eligible for STEP, agencies must be a 501c(3), a member of the Center for Nonprofit Management, and must submit a technology plan that specifies exact hardware needs and requirements allowing the online system to match equipment accordingly. The Center provides technology planning assistance.

"The STEP program is an integral part of the step-by-step process for nonprofits to use technology effectively. First by creating a technology plan, then receiving the equipment laid out in the plan, and finally, training and maintenance that sustain the tech programs," said Cathy Packard, Director of Technology Services, Center for Nonprofit Management. "The Center is here to help nonprofits throughout the entire process."

STEP receives hardware donations from individuals in the community and corporations. STEP volunteers test the hardware; clean the machines (removing all data and licensed software); and load basic operating systems plus Microsoft Office Software. The equipment is then matched to STEP-registered nonprofit agencies. The Center also works with several commercial recyclers including Allied Recycling to ensure the environmentally friendly recycling of any donations that cannot be refurbished.

"As a nonprofit serving nonprofits in the U.S., Asia and Europe, Aidmatrix works to mobilize resources through innovative technology to help nonprofits do more to meet their mission. STEP is a unique program because it not only matches nonprofits with equipment through an easy online process, but it also cleans and prepares the equipment for use," said Melis Jones, Vice President of Aidmatrix Foundation. "The program also encourages donations by offering pick-up service and/or environmentally correct disposal of unusable equipment."

For STEP, Aidmatrix provides the Web-based system that matches the equipment with agencies, World Computer Exchange refurbishes the hardware, and DFW Technology provides the Center with warehouse and air-conditioned workroom space, as well as pick up and delivery service for donations.

For nonprofit agencies that do not have a technology plan, the Center is offering two new workshops: Tech Planning I & II, to assist with plan development. Agencies can register for the workshops online and can enroll July 19 or July 26 for session one, and Aug. 9 or 16 for session two. Cost is $100 per session.

For more information or to donate equipment, go to www.cnmdallas.org or call 214-826-3470.

The Center for Nonprofit Management

The mission of the Center for Nonprofit Management is to build a stronger community by increasing the performance and impact of nonprofit organizations. Now in its 25th year, the Center serves more than 1,300 agencies annually. The Center offers a variety of services including education, consulting and technology services and is the recognized leader for advancing best practices in nonprofit management. For more information, visit www.cnmdallas.org.

Aidmatrix Foundation

Dallas-based Aidmatrix provides Internet-based software to increase efficiency and reduce waste in the delivery of humanitarian aid. Partner organizations include suppliers, manufacturers and distributors of donated aid items, major nonprofit organizations and technology providers.

Through its software, Aidmatrix helps deliver more than $600 million in aid each year to more than 37 million people in need. For more information, please visit www.aidmatrix.com.

World Computer Exchange (WCE)

WCE is an international educational nonprofit focused on helping the world's poorest youth to bridge the disturbing global divides in information, technology and understanding. WCE keeps donated computers out of landfills and gives them new life connecting youth to the Internet in developing countries. WCE leverages the resources of businesses, strategic allies, volunteers, and schools to build the capacity of WCE's partners to prepare local schools, teachers, and students to use the Internet as a bridge to new resources, opportunities, and understanding. For more information, visit www.worldcomputerexchange.org.

DFW Technology

DFW Technology is a corporate IT service provider, providing on-site Helpdesk and Desktop Services (HDS) programs to corporate customers. For more information, visit www.dfwtechnology.com.