Computer CORE

Computer CORE: Building Confidence through Computer Competence

"Many recent immigrants find themselves in similar situations," says Kelvin Martinez, a volunteer with the Alexandria-based nonprofit Computer CORE, where Abdul enrolled in 2001. "There are a number people who—whether they grew up poor or are recent immigrants—lack basic skills that are critical to their success," Martinez says. "Computer CORE offers a community of students and mentors working through those shared challenges."

Computer CORE enrolls many students like Abdul for whom learning a few fundamental skills can make a world of difference. Average students take six months of general computing, English language, and career development classes and receive a free computer. Most importantly, they join a network of volunteers, students, staff and alumni that supports them during and beyond the program. "Computer CORE alumni often help current students land their first jobs," says founder Deb Roepke. "The evidence that our program works exists in the successes of our students and alumni. They are our biggest achievement."

To Abdul, Computer CORE was "a gift" that gave him the tools and confidence he needed to pursue his dream. Today he works as a financial analyst for Congressional Federal Credit Union in Washington, DC. He attributes much of his success to the support he received from Computer CORE. "If you had asked me six or seven years ago if I would be here, I would have said 'no way,' " Abdul says. "Destiny puts the right people in the right place at the right time. For me, that place was Computer CORE."

Computer CORE Wish List

During the giving season, many area nonprofits like Computer CORE look to the community for support. Small contributions make enormous differences in the lives of many local residents. Currently, Computer CORE needs:

• A suite of 12-50 computers of the same configuration for its computer lab and to distribute to clients. Due to the needs of the program, Computer CORE can only accept matching sets of computers with the following minimum specifications: 600 MHz processors, 256MB RAM, 10G hard drives, CD-ROM and floppy drives, and 17-inch CRT Monitors or any size flat screen. To donate at least 12 computers of the same configuration, please call Dawn at (703) 931-7346 x103. For all other computer donations, see Computer CORE's list of computer donation centers.
• Supplies, including: two-inch 3-ring binders, a high volume color laser printer, computer work tables, 2-3 work stations with over-desk storage, and 2 server racks.
• Volunteer services from a qualified electrician and related equipment donations for a lighting upgrade.
• Support for CORE through a Boeing Company $50,000 challenge. The Boeing Company will match all end-of-2007 and early-2008 contributions to Computer CORE up to $50,000. Your tax-deductible gift will help CORE succeed during this important campaign. Interested donors can give through Network for Good and visit Computer CORE online to learn how each gift will help.
• Committed, qualified volunteers to teach skills in computing, language and professional development. As a leader in nonprofit volunteer management, Computer CORE focuses on developing its volunteers as community leaders. To grow your professional and leadership skills while making a difference in the lives of Computer CORE clients, visit Computer CORE online.

For information, to make a contribution or donation, or to volunteer, contact:

Computer CORE
3846 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22302
703-931-7346