Years ago, contributing to charity was quite limited. Donating clothes, toys, and money were the norm. Nowadays, with changing needs and upgraded technologies, people need more help. Now you can donate old computers, automobiles, TVs and more. The newest form of donation includes giving an old cell phone to charity. Making a cell phone donation can help someone less fortunate have better means of communication and help the environment.
Have you ever owned an old cell phone and decided to upgrade? You get a newer phone and you throw away the old one. You probably thought nothing of it but you could be causing serious damage to the environment. Electronic products are not naturally biodegradable because of their metallic and plastic parts. They can even release toxic chemicals into the environment if they are not disposed of properly. Making a cell phone donation will help to keep our world a little safer and cleaner.
There are many charities in existence that will take cell phone donations. Each company works to help various causes but all are out to help others. Some organizations collect old cell phones to help everyone in the world by properly recycling them. Everyone can benefit from a clean environment. Third World nations are recipients of donated cell phones. Sometimes they do not have the means or resources to have landlines. These cell phones are their only means of communication with other countries. Other recipients of cell phones are shelters for victims of domestic abuse. The phones are distributed to the victims and serve as a way for them to have emergency-only communication. Having such protection can help them readjust to life outside the shelter without fear.
If you have decided to make a cell phone donation, you should contact a participating charity for instructions. They can usually be found through local cell phone dealers or online. Many nonprofit organizations are not picky about the kinds of cell phones that can be donated. Whether it is new or old, they will find a way to recycle or refurbish it. Even if you have one of those original cell phones in a bag, if they accept it, the charity will make it work. The only requirement is that you have your wireless service deactivated before you donate the phone. If you have extra batteries, you should send them in as well. However, many charities do not take the accessories such as belt clips, chargers, and other extras. Some organizations have local drop-off stands but others will require you to send the phone in. Make sure you pack the phone in a secure package with good packing materials.
If this type of donation is something your company or organization would be interested in, contact the charity about how to get involved. For each cell phone, you can receive a monetary payment, depending on the age and model of the phone. You will receive the money for your fundraiser and the cell phones will be donated to worthy causes. This is a great alternative to traditional wrapping paper and candy fundraisers. You can raise money for your cause and help others at the same time.
By Tamara C. Jude