Digital Equity
A good home computer is financially out of reach for many low-income families, yet the pandemic made it clear that a home computer was absolutely essential. Comprenew works with regional school districts, social service agencies, and refugee resettlement organizations to identify low-income families in need of a home computer. We provide them with a refurbished device and help direct them to training resources. We also provide training upon request. Our goal is to close the digital divide while setting up families for success.
25% of families in the Grand Rapids Public School system do not own a home computer.
Employment Program
Comprenew strives for an inclusive workplace by hiring people normally left out of technical fields.
We aim to give people with barriers to employment a chance to expand their skill set under Comprenew’s guidance. Individuals with such barriers may include people with a history of mental or physical health issues, substance abuse, veterans, domestic violence survivors, teenage parents, refugees, and those with a lack of work experience, transportation, or child care arrangements. In partnership with a number of area agencies and organizations, this program provides at-risk members of the community the opportunity to learn more about computers and other electronics by aiding us in the recycling process.
Members of our employment program do not handle any data-containing devices.
Nearly 30% of people living with disabilities in the state of Michigan are living below the national poverty line.
Learn about Electronics Recycling
Comprenew works to inspire the community to reduce electronic waste. Let Comprenew help your class, service organization, business or church group learn the importance of proper e-waste handling. Contact us about scheduling a Comprenew staff member to present to your organization.
Each U.S. family disposes of 400 iPhones worth of e-waste every year.
Host a Recycle Event
Want to be a Champion of the Environment? You can, by hosting an electronics recycling event for your company, organization, of community. We can customize these events to suit your specific needs – including establishing a permanent drop off location – anytime of the year.
Give to Comprenew
You can make a big difference in the lives of at-risk and marginalized people in our community! By supporting our program, you not only help protect the environment, you help put people on a path to self-sufficiency and success. While cash donations allow us the most flexibility, there are certain items that we always need. Below is a list:
- Torx Screwdrivers (T8, T10, T15)
- Gaylord Shipping Containers (new or gently used)
- Shipping Pallets
- Adjustable Work Chairs