About
FreeGeek Columbus provides computers and training for limited-resource populations in Central Ohio through redistribution of used equipment and the use of Free Software. FreeGeek Columbus is committed to Free Software, responsible electronics recycling, and community engagement.
FreeGeek Columbus was founded in 2004 in an effort to bring the mission of FreeGeek from Portland, Oregon to Columbus, Ohio. The organization was officially incorporated on June 20, 2005 and received 501(c)(3) tax exempt status on November 14, 2006. FreeGeek Columbus is a volunteer-centric organization. Day-to-day operations are conducted by consensus from participating volunteers whenever possible. The FreeGeek Columbus Board of Directors provide long-term guidance and leadership.
What FreeGeek Columbus does:
- Build refurbished computers from donated parts
- Grant computers to local non-profits who need them
- Responsibly recycle obsolete or non-functioning hardware to keep it out of landfills
- Educate people to use and manage Ubuntu Linux
FreeGeek Columbus is a volunteer organization. You can help by volunteering with us! You can also donate hardware or money. Donations are tax deductible. In the first half of 2009, FreeGeek Columbus recorded almost 1,700 volunteer hours from nearly 300 unique volunteers! Almost 200 computer systems were donated, 17 of which were refurbished and redistributed to volunteers and local non-profit organizations. Hundreds of computer accessories and components, along with dozens of monitors, were responsibly recycled. FreeGeek Columbus is a member of Community Shares of mid-Ohio.
Important documents:
For Board of Directors meeting minutes and other important documents not included in this list, see the Document Repository.
