TechReach’s Mission

 We will strive to enrich the lives of central Virginia’s youth by facilitating equal access to technology as well as equal opportunity for technical literacy.

 Goal

 TechReach is committed to being a leader in improving the technology environment in central Virginia. Through volunteerism and donations, this organization will increase the availability of computer knowledge and resources for central Virginia’s youth – particularly underprivileged youth. The initial focus will be on Goochland County.

 Objectives

How will we do this?

·         Supply computers to students who are unable to purchase a home PC due to economic reasons

·         Partner with the school system to develop technology curriculums that are more closely aligned to the needs of the business community

·         Develop mentor program for students with an aptitude for technology

·         Facilitate universal Internet access for the area...particularly rural areas

Supply computers to students

 ·         501(c)(3)to accept donations

·         Develop criteria to determine which students are “eligible” or partner with other agencies

·         Accept donated PCs retired from businesses or individuals. Recycle these for use by students.

o        Reformat and reinstall Operating Systems on computers

o        Install free software including educational programs, virus protection, utilities, OS, etc.

 Partner with Local School Systems

·         Provide guidance regarding computer skills that are desired in the marketplace

·         Assist with program/curriculum development and teaching

·         Assist in securing computer hardware and software resources if needed

·         Solicit volunteers to work with the school, computer lab, individual kids, etc.

 Develop mentor program

 ·         Partner with business and community groups on a mentorship program for students

·         Work with local businesses directly

 Facilitate universal Internet access

 ·         Work with local government to determine viable internet options to the area

·         Leverage public wireless access points

·         Encourage private businesses

Ground rules

 ·         We will not accept money from any governmental agency of any type.

·         The focus will be on school age kids in the central Virginia region.

·         Our primary emphasis will be on volunteering time by technology professionals, not fund raising or paying for services.

·         No salaries will be paid to TechReach workers

Fund Raising

 The intent of any fundraising is to offset the costs related to delivering on Tech Reach’s mission.  The focus is not to develop a large operating budget. No salaries will be paid to TechReach employees, board members or advocates.

Board of Directors

The role of the Board of Directors is to provide oversight and governance to Tech Reach. It will be an independent, informed and involved group which will oversee the management of the entity.  It will be a “working board” that will be primarily involved in delivering Tech Reach’s mission.

 This “working board” will reflect the approach to governance that seeks to ensure effective governance, accountability and organizational performance. It acknowledges a legitimate board role in operational activities such as development of programs or fundraising. It also legitimizes board activities in support of management functions that might be necessitated by critical events or transitional phases.