DonorTec – Practical ICT Assistance For NonProfits

DonorTec provides donated software and hardware from companies such as Microsoft and Cisco to eligible Australian NonProfits with Income Tax Exempt Status (ITE). Through this program you can get the latest products each year eg Microsoft Windows Vista.

The story of The Australian Refugee Association’s experience with DonorTec – published in the July 2008 DonorTec Newsletter – follows:

About ARA

Since the Australian Refugee Association (ARA) was first created as the Indo-China Refugee Association in 1975, it has expanded its work to include people escaping persecution in any country. It uses a broad definition of a refugee to include others such as asylum seekers, their families and migrants in need.

ARA assists people to move forward from the refugee experience, rebuild their lives and their community, live in dignity and become contributing members of the Australian community. ARA also works with the Australian community, deepening their understanding of the refugee experience, involving people in practical ways by volunteering and providing both practical and financial assistance.

DonorTec Assistance

In May of 2007, through the DonorTec program, ARA received Cisco goods enabling the association to replace its ailing server.

“We were going through a bit of a crisis at the time, because our server was causing problems, and we needed to replace it in a hurry,” said ARA Director, Kevin Liston.

“We got the parts very quickly and it was a life saver – we are very appreciative, regarding both the price that we received the goods for, and the quick turn around time it took to get us up and running again,” he said.

“As an organisation, we don’t have a lot of loose change, and to be able to take advantage of the DonorTec system was fantastic,” Kevin said.

“The donated goods mean that we are able to function a lot more effectively internally, and if we can function more rapidly, it benefits our staff and clients, because we are able to respond to their needs more efficiently.”

Kevin said that the goods “so generously provided by DonorTec” last year had greatly improved ARA’s communications and information management systems, enhancing staff capacity to provide quality services.

“I would absolutely advise other not-for-profit organisations to go for it – and use the DonorTec system! It is very helpful.”

DonorTec Advises Placing Orders Now!

DonorTec is currently running the Order Now Win Later competition. All orders placed and paid on or between 19 June and July 31 will be entered into the draw to win one of the following prizes:

Up to $500 credit for your DonorTec order

Or

$500 for you organisation towards Professional Development (ICT Training /Conference)

Or

X-BOX

The draw will be held on 1 August 2008 and the winner will be published in the following DonorTec newsletter.

To register with DonorTec click here.