Since last summer Goodwill has been accepting computer and computer-related components, but we are now a part of Reconnect, a computer recycling program managed by both Goodwill and Dell.

The Reconnect program originated in 2004 with the Austin Goodwill and has expanded to include over 80 Goodwills across the country. "Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin is very excited to partner with Dell," says Vicki Holschuh, vice president, Retail Services. "Just like Goodwill, Dell is dedicated to environmentally friendly methods of recycling and contributing to Goodwill's mission."

Reconnect offers you an easy, convenient and responsible way to recycle your used computer equipment. Just drop off any brand of used equipment at our participating Goodwill Store & Donation Centers. We accept towers, laptops, printers, monitors, external drives, keyboards, mice, speakers, scanners, fax machines, networking equipment, power cords and computer software. All of your donated equipment has value to Goodwill because the proceeds from your donation are used to support our mission of providing training, employment and supportive services for people with disabilities or disadvantages.

Donors are responsible for removing all data from their hard drives before donating their computer (visit the following link for information on how to erase data before donating your computer). Some stores may sell the computer accessories, however the computer CPU/hard drives themselves will not be sold in stores, but will be recycled.

Dell has the industry-leading experience in offering responsible consumer recycling programs that meet the highest standards of workplace and environmental safety. All collection and recycling practices are audited by a third-party to ensure these high standards. They include an absolute prohibition on the export of waste and on the landfill of any environmentally-sensitive material.

"We are making it as easy as possible for the environmentally-conscious customers to do the right thing," said Mike Watson, senior manager of Dell Global Recycling Services. "Every technology provider has a responsibility to provide free, easy and responsible recycling to consumers worldwide."

Many donors have commented on how quick and easy it is to donate their computers to Goodwill. They also appreciate Goodwill's dedication to the environment and knowing that their computer isn't headed to a landfill.