Are computers really free for the children?

Absolutely! Children who attend the 2 day workshops generally pay a fee to help cover some of the expenses. But these fees are often waived depending on need. The computers, printers and service are always free to the children.

What happens if a child's computer breaks?

They bring the computer into the shop and we fix it for them. Simple as that.

Does C4K have to buy software for the PCs?

Yes. All computers leave the C4K with fully licensed software. Because C4K is a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher, we are able to get licensed software for reasonable cost.

What is a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher?

  The Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher (MAR) program was established by Microsoft to help nonprofit organizations make sure their computers are running fully licensed software. We are able to load all PCs with Windows XP and MS Works for a very reasonable cost. See the TechSoup site more information. By the way, Computer4Kids is the only member of the MAR program in the Billings area.

Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes, it is! We give you a receipt for your donation, and you figure the deduction amount based on the fair market value of the equipment. The IRS provides some guidelines on how to do this.

Do you need anything other than PCs?

Like most nonprofits, we need more things than we could possibly list. But computer supplies, tools, cash, and volunteers top the list. Check with us to see if we have any specific current needs.

Can my company donate PCs? Money? Volunteers?

Yes, yes, yes! If you don't have the time, we can clean your corporate machines using Active@ KillDisk - Hard Drive Eraser (www.killdisk.com). We would also be glad to have your donations to help defray our costs. Finally, if you've got staff that love what we're doing, we would be happy to have them help us out. You can show your corporate responsibility by allowing them a couple paid hours a week to work with us.

What kind of skills do your volunteers need?

We spend a lot of time tearing down and rebuilding PCs. IT employees are usually quite good at this. But we also need other skills. If you can help raise funds, write grants, represent C4K at events, or sit at a reception desk and answer the phone, we could use your help.

My computer is not likely usable. Do I have to pay C4K to recycle my machine?

No, you don't have to pay us to recycle your machine. We would appreciate a donation to help cover our recycling expenses, but that is entirely up to you. See the "Help Fund C4K" page for suggested amounts.

My brother/sister/cousin/neighbor needs a PC. Are they eligible?

If they have a need, are not able to get a PC using their own resources, and will be using it mainly for their educational pursuits, then they may be eligible. Fill out an application on the "Request a PC" page.

My brother/sister/cousin/neighbor has a lot of money. Will you take it?

YES! We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Their donation is fully tax deductible.

Will you really take any old PC?

Yes. We would appreciate a donation to help cover our recycling expenses, but that is entirely up to you. See the "Help Fund C4K" page for suggested amounts.

If you give a child a PC, won't they just use it to play on the Internet?

Hopefully. The children we give PCs to use their computers for homework, research, games, and browsing the Internet. None of these things would be possible for them if not for C4K and your donations.

Why do you suggest a donation? Aren't you really just charging me a fee?

Unfortunately, Computer4Kids has a lot of expenses that can't be paid with computer equipment. The suggested donation is entirely your decision, but we appreciate any assistance you can provide to help us serve the children of our community.

I have a PC to donate. Will you come pick it up?

We have a trailer that can be used to pick up large batches of donations. We will pick up individual donations of PCs for a $15 fee.