The goal of the FLPC Program is to work with non-profits and businesses in the local community to facilitate free and low-cost technology initiatives using donated equipment and volunteer resources. Of course, that sounds like a rather broad goal, but the needs in each community are different and so the solutions will inevitably be varied. To date, we have worked with several non-profits in Upstate SC to distribute donated computer equipment to needy families and individuals through focused "FLPC Events".

Regrettably, in this high-tech, digitally-connected world we live in, many families lack the financial resources to purchase even a single personal computer (PC), and quite often lack the basic "digital literacy" skills necessary to become proficient with one. That's where FLPC comes in. We take used computers donated by schools, businesses, and other organizations, refurbish them and load them with a (Free!) Linux operating system and software. FLPC recipients are guided through a setup process to install their operating system and software during a brief two-hour training session. FLPC events are usually small (fewer than 15 people) and participants are encouraged to help each other and to ask lots of questions! Because the truth is that while computers may seem "intelligent", only people can teach people. In addition to leaving with a new (refurbished) PC with lots of free software, PC recipients leave with the basic knowledge and confidence necessary to feel comfortable using it. You can view a brief slideshow presentation entitled "Bridging the Digital Divide" [PDF version] to better understand the need, the FLPC solution, and how you can get involved today!

The Internet is a wonderful and seemingly limitless "ocean" of information, as well as a source of many tools for making our lives more convenient. Over the past two decades, businesses have embraced the World Wide Web as a means of reaching and supporting customers. For many businesses, the Internet is their primary means of interacting with their customers. A wealth of information and literature is freely available on the Web. Educational sites and sites for researching homework projects are abundant. That is, if you have access to a PC to connect to this bounty. More and more, owning a personal computer and having fast and reliable access to the Internet is becoming, not just a matter of convenience, but rather one of necessity.

It is our goal to work with local area businesses and ask them to donate their used computer equipment, and then provide regular FLPC events where recipients can get a free computer and gain valuable skills toward entering the Digital Age. Please help us by learning more about this initiative and how you can start your own FLPC group in your community.

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