At Oak Hill Collaborative, students have the opportunity to qualify for a refurbished laptop — free of charge after completing five, one hour classes, as part of the Hardware for Homes program.
Hardware for Homes focuses on giving back to individuals directly impacted by the Digital Divide the Mahoning Valley faces. The classes, which instruct a variety of core, beginner-level skills, are part of an education effort Oak Hill Collaborative is proud to provide.
Since June 1, Oak Hill Collaborative has graduated 24 students — meaning 24 laptops and services have gone back to the community in an impactful way.
One pair of students we’ve graduated includes a father and son duo, Preston and Louis. Preston, who is in his 90s and known as Mr. Inspiration amongst OHC’s staff, graduated alongside his son on June 6.
Louis, who originally started attending classes back in May, asked for staff to hold off on his graduation, so he could be presented with his laptop at the same time as his father.
The pair each went home that day with their very own laptop and charger.
Louis has continuously supported Oak Hill Collaborative’s efforts and has also brought other new students in for classes, most recently, his sister.
Other recent proud graduates from our main branch include Adenike, who was able to graduate June 13. Adenike celebrated afterwards with a small photo-op with her son, and looked forward to working more with applications, such as Adobe Photoshop, which we regularly teach.
Off-site at Thrive 10:10, two students were also presented with their laptops after completing the Hardware for Homes program.
Mary and Pamela had been attending OHC’s classes in Girard since the collaboration began, and were able each go home more aware on how to navigate digital news following class on June 12.
The pair was joined by Sarah and Amy for photos, who graduated the week prior alongside another 12 students.
“This is a great class, I’m glad I came. It’s been fun,” one of the Thrive 10:10 students wrote to us. “I hope more people come, thank you for everything you have done for me.”
Many graduates continue to return for classes or get involved in other impactful community programs. In May, a student named Alonzo graduated and OHC was delighted to recently be informed he’s now working alongside ACTION — another local nonprofit.
Individuals who are already receiving aid such as SNAP, Medicaid, FPHA, and WIC qualify for the Hardware for Homes program. Parents who receive free or reduced school lunches for children also qualify.
Oak Hill Collaborative also provides affordable access to hardware through purchases. Laptops available to be earned through our Hardware for Homes program are also available for purchase if an individual is worried about time availability, continuous travel or other outside inhibitors.
Laptops available for purchase cost $100 and can be paid in cash, card or check.
For any questions about the Hardware for Homes program eligibility, class schedules or technical assistance, contact our main location at (330) 406-0731 or email us at oakhillcollaborative@gmail.com
