A-B Tech students in need of a computer can own one for a $35 processing fee thanks to a partnership between the A-B Tech Foundation and Jennifer and Greg Mayer, co-owners of Charlotte Street Computers.
Registered full-time or part-time students may request a refurbished desktop computer complete with keyboard, mouse, and power cords through the Foundation's Lavender Fund Scholarship Adviser. After verification of the student's status, a paper voucher will be issued to the student so the computer can be claimed. The processing fee must be paid at the time the computer is picked up. The computer becomes the property of the student.
Student Victoria Schomer found herself in a bind when she discovered her computer couldn't open test questions and materials from her class. "I have always used MacIntosh and the class I was taking required a PC. I could not fully participate in class without the material. I priced used computers but they were out of my budget. I felt like my back was against the wall and I didn't know what to do," she said.
Schomer called Charlotte Street Computers to see if they had any affordable computers and they referred her to the program through the A-B Tech Foundation. After verification, she was able to pick up her voucher at the A-B Tech Foundation office in the Fernihurst Building and pick up her computer at Charlotte Street Computers, all on her lunch break.
"It couldn't be easier and it's a really great program. When I am done with the classes, I plan to bring it back so it can be given to another student," Schomer said.
"We are grateful to Jennifer and Greg Mayer of Charlotte Street Computers for their generosity," said Jimmie Cochran Pratt, Foundation Development Officer. "They have given students an opportunity to own their own computer to assist them with their education."
Charlotte Street Computers is located at 101 S. Lexington Ave, Asheville, 209-6600.
Members of the general public needing a computer may apply through the Eblen/Kimmel Foundation.
Students interested in the program should contact Liz Atkinson, Lavender Fund Scholarship Advisor, at 254-1921, Ext. 7564 or e-mail latkinson@abtech.edu.
A-B Tech Foundation Charlotte Street Computers Eblen/Kimmel Foundation
Tech Talk is published by the Communications Office for employees and friends of Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College.
Editor: Mona Cornwell, Writer: Martha Ball, Designers: Justin Page, April Sides
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