BREMERTON, WA - June 11, 2001. Professional Options and Olympic College Foundation launched the kick of event of its first ever Computer Drive on May 26, 2001 at the Bremerton Campus Theatre Lobby from 9am - 2pm. It resulted in 16 computers, 12 or so monitors, software and more. Nine computers met the criteria for donation, and there are currently 41 remaining student applicants who are in dire need of computers, and our commitment is to ensure each receives a computer. Thus, we are continuing to collect donations that meet Olympic College Foundation's criteria and encourage countywide participation.

"We've received fantastic support from West Sound Technology Professionals Association (www.wstpa.org), North Kitsap Options Program, Career Solver, Heads Up Brewing, Kitsap Regional Library, Paladin, Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce, Todd Pacific Shipyards, Bainbridge Island Community Network...and more." stated Ms. Keating. "Many recognise the importance of technology for students and have stepped up to the plate on behalf of the community. We're going to keep going with this vision to increase access to training, education and use of computers and the Internet for students. Our hope is to extend eventually to schools, nonprofit and community-based organizations, low income residents, seniors, the disabled, minorities, women and limited-English speakers."

The initiative was launched to address a need for equipment for Business Management, Office Technology and Computer Information students at Olympic College. Olympic College Foundation has arranged to receive donation of computers from local area residents, organizations and businesses. The May 26 event was only the first step in a region-wide computer donation program intended by Doña Keating of Professional Options.

Student applications were weighted by factors such as family income, time enrolled at Olympic College, and field of study. Donated computers brought to the drive should be working, Y2K compliant, and at least 486s /66MHz or faster. Software donations should include all related diskettes or compact discs, applicable manuals and the original product license agreements must accompany the donation. Pre-installed software should also have end-user license agreements, including the certificate of authenticity.

Olympic College Foundation is the nonprofit arm of Olympic College. Kim McNamara's leadership has been pivotal in working to bridge the Digital Divide between information technology "haves" and "have nots." "This is a very exciting opportunity for students who might not be able to afford to purchase a computer," explained Ms. McNamara. "Everyone benefits from this program. Students will have access to computers needed for success in today’s workplace and employers will contribute to building the skills of their future employees."

We are always seeking volunteers to transport equipment to a storage facility, or technicians to ensure computers are in working order. For more information and all the above applications, visit www.professionaloptions.org/computer.htm. You may also contact Ms. Keating at Professional Options, or Ms. McNamara at Olympic College, 360.432.5407.

CONTACT:
Ms. Doña L. Keating
Mr. Charles A. Keating
Professional Options
(360) 613-5876  - (360) 613-5920 (Fax)
mailto:info@guardiannewsltr.com
http://www.guardiannewsltr.com

# # #