if santa is bringing you new tech gear, give a second life to the ones being replaced. 
by beth ziesenis
app of the week
many people get new smartphones and gadgets during the december gifting season, so i’m not sure why someone thought we should celebrate national device appreciation day on december 17.
however, it is an excellent time to take stock of the devices in your desk drawer (or the ones you’re thinking of replacing).
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you can repurpose older devices for your own use or donate them to any number of charities to help others.
any parent with young children knows older mobile phones are still basically tiny computers. kids could use the older devices to play videos, play games or listen to music.
however, you could also enlist older devices for new jobs.
for example, you can use old devices as security cameras with an app like alfredcamera. users install the app on two phones, sign in on both devices and pair them. it is free, but there is also a premium plan that enables advanced features offering more security.
if you have electronics that you simply don’t need anymore, there are many charitable organizations that can put your unwanted stuff to use, which is probably a preferred alternative to simply recycling and much preferred over allowing them to end up in a landfill.
- 911cellphonebank: device donations go to benefit vulnerable residents in communities across the country. there is no cost to participate either as a donor or a partner agency.
- cellphonesforsoldiers: this is a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing cost-free communication services and emergency funding to active-duty military members and veterans.
- computerswithcauses: part of the giving center 501c3 nonprofit, offers working computers to those in need and have completed a computer application.
- goodwill: some goodwill stores are part of the nonprofit’s e-cycle program, so you may want to contact your nearest donation center first. if items are in good working condition, the store can sell them. if they are not, goodwill partners with dell reconnect to safely recycle non-working computers and gadgets.
- human-i-t: recipients of donations include low-income households, charitable organizations, not-for-profit schools, veterans and people with disabilities.
- securethecall: this organization provides free, emergency-only mobile phones to domestic violence centers, senior citizen centers and police and sheriff departments.
- techfortroops: this organization provides in-need veterans and children of veterans with affordable refurbished computers.
so, if new tech gear finds you this holiday season, consider paying it forward to someone in need and start off your new year with good karma.