Program Description

The Senior Technology Awareness Program (STAP) serves low-income older adults with hands-on training and refurbished computers.

Workshops

1. Introduction to PCs: Participants are taught basic computing skills.
2. Searching the Internet and email: Email accounts are set up for all participants.
3. Benefits: Participants receive personalized reports for all federal and local programs for which they are eligible. Processing is also offered for applications for Medicare prescription cards.
4. Document creation: Beginner-level Microsoft Word is taught. A self-tutorial workbook is given to participants for them to continue learning the application at their own speed. (2 sessions)
5. PC Hardware: Participants are made familiar with computer hardware components. They take apart and reassemble a PC that they will take home. (Individuals must have participated in the previous 4 workshops.)
6. PC Follow-up: Questions and concerns from the previous workshops are addressed.

Since 2005, over 44 workshops have been held throughout the city at various locations. Nearly 140 older adults have learned life-changing skills. STAP has received national recognition from the Public Technology Institute: PTI is a national non-profit technology research & development organization created by and for cities and counties to enable the sharing of innovative and effective technology programs.

History

The first PC Technology Workshop was held on February 2005 at Temple University Fox School of Business, sponsored by the Mayor's Commission on Technology. Advertising was limited to the Philadelphia residents who frequented the five city-managed Older Adult Centers.

The response was unexpected: An initial single introductory workshop with 10 adults became two "Introduction to Technology" workshops with 62 participants. A new location would be needed and was provided by Nonprofit Technology Resources.

A second workshop was held, called "Benefits". It included participants from the first workshop. Personalized eligibility reports were distributed to participants.

STAP later joined NTR in implementing STAP's objective:

• To promote effective use of 21st century technology.
• To put seniors in touch with information sources new to them.
• To help seniors apply for benefits.
• To improve the quality of life for older adults.

NTR implemented the program in partnership with the City of Philadelphia's Department of Recreation Older Adult Centers, Philadelphia Free Libraries, and the Mayor's Office of Information Services. All instruction currently is accomplished with the support of volunteers from BOPR, MOIS, Black Data Processor Association, Federal Employees, Blue Cross Blue, El Concilio, and other local organizations and universities.

This program first evolved from observations made at the City of Philadelphia Board of Pensions & Retirement. City retirees facing times of personal crisis would request information from personnel at this city department. Staff would attempt to find programs and agencies where the pensioners could find help. They could avoid many traumatic situations by applying to various municipal or federal programs.

Gwendolyn Bell, the Executive Director of the Board of Pensions at the time, began collecting data from potential retirees when they participated in Retirement Seminars at the Board. Responses to the questionnaire revealed that while many may have used PCs at work, many lack basic internet or email skills and 80% of respondents wanted to learn basic computing skills.

Current Workshop Volunteer Needs

1. Volunteer-to-student ratio of 1:4 for English-speaking workshops.
2. Volunteer-to-student ratio of 1:2 for Spanish-speaking workshops.

Program Staff

Volunteerism predominates here until funding is secured for paid staff.

Wendy Harper, Program Director, 215-686-1460
Lola Poulson, Instructor & Curriculum Administrator
Kathleen Nolan, Administrative Assistant
Phyllis Croswell, Secretary
Yvonne Nock, Financial Administrator
Connie Landis, Instructor
Derek Alston, Instructor
Greg Evans, Instructor
David Harper, Instructor
Claudia Harper, Instructor
Brian Fleming, Instructor
Marty Toohey, Instructor
Clarence Smith, Instructor

Computer Labs for Nonprofit Organizations

NTR offers complete computer labs to nonprofit organizations. That's ten computers and a printer -- and a class that will show your staff how to set them up in a network. Basic specifications:

• Pentium 4 processor running at 2.5 GHz or faster.
• 512 MB RAM.
• 40 GB hard drive.
• CD-ROM drive.
• Video, sound, and network interface cards.
• 17” CRT monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers.
• Network laser printer & 10/100 network switch.
• Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Microsoft Office 2003, Microsoft SteadyState, virus protection, spyware protection, educational applications.
• All computers, monitors, keyboards, mice, and the printer will be covered under our 3-year guarantee.

To find out more, read or print this Computer Labs for Nonprofits flyer (PDF) or its HTML version.

The Hacktory promotes the use of technology in the arts through:

• Classes
• Community Events
• Shared Facilities and Equipment
• Artist in residence program
• Art and Technology promotion
• Materials Exchange

The Hacktory is incubated as a project of Nonprofit Technology Resources. Some of what the Hacktory does at NTR can be seen in this photo gallery.

The Hacktory Mission Statement

Our goal is to empower people and give them a sense that technology can be a tool for personal expression. We want to reinforce the idea that our world is malleable -- the devices and spaces we interact with everyday can be repurposed and modified to create new experiences. We would like to instill a sense of confidence in people's ability to build things, alter pre-made objects for the better, and teach the skills necessary to do so.

Long-term, we want to establish a diverse community of hackers that benefit the Greater Good and foster a general excitement about technology and the arts. Our classes, activities, and events serve to bring together people with the skills, connections, and resources to achieve this long-term goal.

Contact

For more information about the Hacktory program, do any or all of the following:

• Email contact@thehacktory.org.
• Visit The Hacktory Blog.
• Read some of the articles right here under "Press and Other Sources".

Press and Other Sources

The Temple News. October 7, 2008.
Hacktory offers geek-friendly classes

Philadelphia Weekly. July 23, 2008.
Authentic Geek by Lit Gloss

Philebrity. June 11, 2008.
Technology Special Report: IgnitePhilly

Philadelphia Business Journal. June 6, 2008.
Ignite Philly offers rapid-fire pitching

City Paper. May 8, 2008.
Just do it. Brain machine workshop

Geekadelphia. April 25, 2008.
Josh Kopel of MakePhilly Says Goodbye, Sells You His Stuff

Philadelphia Business Journal. April 18, 2008.
Grassroots groups nurture creativity

City Paper (cover story). March 27, 2008.
Hack to the future

Make Blog. March 7, 2008.
The Hacktory open workshop

Philadelphia City Paper. January 29, 2008.
In the event that ... You're a love-struck tech geek

Philebrity. January 22, 2008.
You can dance if you chiptune, you can leave your friends behind

Artblog (Roberta Fallon and Libby Rosof). January 18, 2008.
So you want to make a robot...

Geekadelphia. January 17, 2008.
Microcontroller ... it's back

Off the Hook. January 16, 2008.
Bernies talks about The Hacktory 30minutes into the program

UWISHUNU. January 2, 2008.
The Hacktory

Philebrity. December 18, 2007.
Proof that geeks that make stuff are sexy

Geekadelphia. December 18, 2007.
This weekend in photos

DesignTheory431. December 9, 2007.
Home manufacturing and community fab

Philadelphia City Paper. August 9, 2007.
Make:Philly

Philadelphia Weekly. April 25, 2007.
Art Buggy Derby 2.0

Every two or three weeks during each academic year, NTR partners with the Student Life Center of CCP to help students and other CCP folks to acquire low-cost computers. The deal includes a two-hour orientation, free dial-up Internet service, and a free flash drive. Total price for everything here: $195. The Internet service alone is worth over $120 per year.

This information and some of what follows below also appear on the flier (Fall '10 version) we distribute on campus.

The Computer

As of Fall 2010, these are the specs of the computers CCP people get from this NTR program:

• Pentium 4 desktop.
• Windows XP Pro.
• 512 MB RAM (memory).
• 17" color monitor (CRT).
• Keyboard and mouse.
• CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive.
• Speakers.
• Ethernet (local network) card.
• 56K modem (built in).
• 40 GB hard drive.
• At least half a dozen USB ports (for printers, flash drives, cameras, MP3 players, etc).
• The Microsoft Office software suite (Word, Excel, etc).
• Typing tutor.
• Maintenance software, e.g., IOBit Defrag, Advanced Windows Care, anti-virus, etc.
• Free unlimited Internet (dialup). We guarantee that it will be available to you for at least a year. This service is not supported by advertising, so it shows no ads. Use of this service requires a standard phone line in the home.
• A three-year guarantee. NTR does the repairs right on its own premises only 5 minutes walk from CCP. We fix anything except smashed computers, water damage, or anything else truly horrendous. We'll restore your computer to where it works as well as when you got it, even if your neighbor tried to put a failed "upgrade" on it, or if children tried to "feed" the computer graham crackers or popsicle sticks. Repairs are free but may take a week or longer. We can't guarantee recovery of  lost data.

The Orientation

In a two-hour instructional session held at NTR, attendees get to "meet your computer":

• We walk you through the process of setting the whole machine up, so that when you get home, you'll know how to rig all those wires and start operating the machine right away.
• You open the computer up, and we give you a tour of its innards. This is good for, among other things, having a better idea of how to add memory, new drives, etc.
• We show you how to keep your computer running longer without problems: How to defragment your hard drive. How to run other maintenance programs to keep you safe from viruses and spyware.
• And we're certainly happy to answer questions. Do bring questions! Our instructors are true experts, so this is a chance to get answers to questions that you have long had.

How to Sign Up

This NTR program is for people with any category of CCP ID card: students, faculty, staff, etc.

1. First, go to the Student Life Center. That's in room S1.19, which you'll see on the first floor as you walk back toward the Coffeehouse.
2. The front desk person will take your name and then instruct you where to go to make the payment at a CCP cashier.
3. Bring the receipt back to the Student Life Center, and the staff will give you a map to help you find the orientation session.
4. Don't forget to get the map. No one at CCP will be able to help you find NTR if the student activities staff are not there.
5. Show up at NTR, on Brandywine Street, on the date and time you selected.
6. Free parking is provided in the lot adjacent to the NTR building, but not in the lot on the corner of 16th St. (The corner lot is private and restricted to monthly parking only. They will tow you away if you park there, and you'll have to pay to get your car back.)

If you'd rather talk on the phone with somebody before registering, here's the number for the front desk of Student Life: 215-751-8164.

What Other Attendees Have Written About This

“Very helpful and insightful.” JO, Aug ‘10

“An excellent experience.” NM, Jun ‘10

“Instructor was great, very helpful and patient. (I) was glad they showed how to change out RAM.” AW, Jun ‘10

“Teacher did very good with the workshop. I am happy with all the knowledge that he help me with. Overall everything went well.” TW, Jun ‘10

“Very informative, excellent presentation. Q&A were answered well.” SB, Apr ‘10

“Was excellent. Instructor very knowledgeable.” YC, Apr ‘10

“Very good presentation. Very interesting workshop.” VT, Apr ‘10

“He presented the information in a planned format and friendly manner. He answered questions, as silly as some were. I learned how to open up my computer and its basic functions in a manner I'd never known. I have a better understanding on maintenance and computer storage (RAM). Keep up the good work.” RJ, Apr ‘10

“Thank you for your concern in reference to my computer knowledge.” LR, Apr ‘10

“Good. Learned a lot.” CC, Apr ‘10

“This workshop was very informative. I learned finally where the motherboard was and what ROM was and how to upgrade. I want to come again so I can understand more about how a computer is built.” JF, Apr ‘10

“Very good class.” JT, Mar ‘10

“Very well given! I now know more, well, a lot more, about maintenance on the computer.” MW, Mar ‘10

“Very thorough, and instructor answered all questions. Very pleased with all aspects.” AB, Mar ‘10

“Very precise and informative. The presenter spoke slowly and explained all aspects in an understandable manner. I liked when he allowed me to open, disconnect, and reattach the RAM, hard drive and disk drive. I feel like I could build a computer if I wanted.” HM, Feb ‘10

“Very informative, great learning experience, seems like a great starter computer.” ST, Feb ‘10

“Instructor is very knowledgeable and informative with the presentation. He is patient when it comes to questions asked. I am comfortable with the computer now. He made me feel confident about using and caring for my computer. He provided many options for single uses of things concerning the computer. Having many resources makes me assured that I can care for my computer more competently.” DC, Feb ‘10

“The presentation was such a treat. The information, time and attention (in constructing the PC and presenting it) was ideal. The patience of the presenter coupled with the comprehensive familiarization with the PC was great. It helped to curtail the anxiety one usually has when dealing with PC issues.” BT, Jan ‘10

“The presentation was very enlightening. The instructor was very well informed and prepared.” JS, Jan ‘10

“Very informative and made me comfortable to take apart and put together [the computer].” RG, Nov ‘09

“It was very informative and I learned a lot of new computer jargon. Instructor not only showed me how to operate my computer, it was very hands-on.” MT, Nov ‘09

“Very informal! Presented well and detailed.” TR, Oct ‘09

“Instructive, very informal and patient. Nice guy.” LM, Oct ‘09

“Presenter was very knowledgeable and clear with explanation and care of the computer.” CG, Oct ‘09

“It was very hands-on and informative.” AC, Sep ‘09

“The workshop was great. I learned how to use my computer better.” PB, Aug ‘09

“Excellent teacher and program.” LJ, Jun ‘09

“I did receive some valuable information about computers that I did not have any prior knowledge of. The instructor was extremely professional and knowledgeable.” MC, Jun ‘09

“Very knowledgeable, and kind.” RG, Apr ‘09

“A terrific opportunity and experience. Thank you.” CF, Mar ‘09

“Excellent, please continue program! Thank you!” EM, Mar ‘09

“Very good instructor.” EW, Feb ‘09

“I learned a lot about the simple things that make a computer run or stop running. Now when something is wrong I can check it out for myself instead of throwing it out.” CB, Aug ‘08

“I thought the instructor was very helpful and easy to understand. He made my experience with computers one of less fear.” TB, Mar ‘08

“It was great! Easy to understand and very valuable! I'm sure it will save me time and money.” LP, Mar ‘08

“Wonderful, really helped me to understand some things that eluded me before. Instructor was really nice and informative.” LA, Feb ‘08

“The presenter was very explanatory of the various tools available in the PC. I was very pleased with his demeanor and helpfulness." DH, Mar ‘08

Instructor “did an outstanding job! Learned a lot about the inside work of this computer & programs.” JO, Jun ’08

“Nice introduction to the working of computer.” GT, Jun ‘08

“Very knowledgable and helpful.” MJ, Jan ‘08

“Very helpful.” JB, Jan ‘08

“My father and I learned a good amount of new things. For example, learning to open the CPU and replacing parts and closing it.” SL, Jan ‘08

Instructor “understood and answered every question asked, he was obviously very knowledgeable in this field.” BL, Jan ‘08

“I learned more about hardware.” AP, Jan ‘08

“He was very good and knows just [what] he is doing.” SB, Feb ‘08

“Professional and pleasant.” JS, Jan ‘08

“Teacher was great and explained things easy.” SB, Feb ‘08

“I thought the class was very informative.” RS, Feb ‘08

“Everything was excellent.” AA, Feb ‘08

“Presentation was well organized. All of the information given will be essential to my learning.” NF, Apr ‘08

“The instructor was very patient. Also, he spoke with clarity. The instructor enjoyed instructing the class. I learned so-o-o much from him during the time that I spent in his presence.” CW, Feb ‘08

“I thought that the presentation was presented well and with a wide range of knowledge.” BB, Apr ‘08

“Very knowledgeable, patient, friendly.” GC, Feb ‘08

Instructor “was an excellent presenter. He demonstrated excellence in all areas of teaching. He is a very knowledgeable person in his area of profession.” RH, Feb ‘08

“Excellent on explaining any concerns that I had.” TC, Feb ‘08

“The presentation was excellent and very easy to follow.” PS, Mar ‘08

“Excellent, there was not a question he did not have an answer to. I feel very confident.” MJ, Feb ‘08

“Very detailed info on basic instructions on how to look inside the computer.” HW, Mar ‘08

“Instructor was very informational and relatable.” JS, Feb ‘08

Instructor “is an excellent & very personable instructor. He has made an outstanding impression on me! Very knowledgeable about all aspects of computer. His tutorial is great. I will recommend several individuals.” IA, Mar ‘08

“The presentation was very informative. It was nice doing business with you guys.” MS, Apr ‘08

NTR Now Does Repairs!

Formerly, the only machines we'd fix would be what people bought or received from NTR. In early 2009 we opened a full-service repair shop for anybody. Give us a call (215-564-6686) or visit our store (1524 Brandywine) to schedule an appointment at a convenient time. For now, here's a list of what we regularly offer:

Diagnostic

Get to the bottom of the problems plaguing your computer with this diagnostic service. After testing all of the software and hardware on your computer, we will diagnose and explain any problems facing your personal computer ("PC" for short, including Mac). We will follow up with an estimate so you can make an informed decision about your next step.

PC Setup

Take the hassle out of computer and computer-peripheral setup with this PC setup service. We will set up your computer (including your monitor, keyboard, mouse and speakers), install one software application and one external peripheral device, configure your machine for the Internet, and test the computer for proper functionality.

Computer Optimization

Ensure your PC runs smoothly and securely with this PC enhancement and optimization service. We will enhance speed and performance, enable basic security features, remove unwanted programs, and make sure your PC is ready for everyday use.

Hardware Upgrades

Add a peripheral device to your home PC setup with this hardware installation service. We will install an internal or external PC component, such as a graphics card, hard drive, optical drive, MP3 player, printer, or scanner, and configure it for added convenience.

Memory Install

Enhance your PC (or Mac) experience by adding more memory to your computer. With this service, we will install an internal stick of memory to your laptop or desktop. (The hardware itself is not included.)

Software Install

Get that important piece of software up and running on your computer with this software installation service. We will install and/or repair, configure, and update one software title and add convenient desktop, start menu, and quick launch bar shortcuts for quick and easy access. (The software itself is not included.)

Software Suite Install

Protect your home computer from harmful Web traffic with this software suite installation service. We will install and/or repair, configure, and update anti-virus, anti-spyware, firewall, Web browsing and anti-phishing software and create convenient desktop, start menu, and quick launch bar shortcuts for quick and easy access. (The software itself is not included.)

Operating System Install

Running the latest operating system helps maximize PC performance and security. But installation can take hours, and there are points in the process where if you're not careful you can end up having to start all over again. Why not leave it to the experts? We'll provide a complete, professional installation, along with re-installation of drivers, and updates.

Computer Checkup

Make sure you're getting the most from your computer with this checkup service. We will make sure everything is in working order and remove any unnecessary programs to improve your PC's performance. We'll also make sure all updates, software fixes, and security enhancements are up to date.

Virus and Spyware Removal

Make sure your computer is ready for action with this diagnostic and repair service. We will uncover and solve any operating system issues, remove viruses and spyware, and optimize your PC for improved performance.

Diagnostic and Repair with Backup

Protect your important files, photos, and music from extinction by drive crash with this diagnostic, repair, and backup service for your PC. We will troubleshoot and repair problems, remove viruses, and make sure essential information is backed up.

Data Backup Services: One Time Data Backup

Transfer your important data to another storage location with this data backup and transfer service for PC. We will transfer up to 9.4 gigabytes of data from your computer to CD, DVD, network-attached storage, an internal or external hard drive, or another computer and import it to an installed program or other desired location.

Data Recovery

What happens one day when you find yourself in a techno-crisis with a blue screen or a frozen system? First, you bring the affected equipment to us, and we'll do a check to see whether the data can be recovered -- it usually can. Then our expertise really kicks in: We know plenty of ways, and we'll exhaust as many of them as we have to in order to find your irreplaceable data. Because we want to be thorough, the timing may vary, but we'll keep in touch with you throughout the process to make sure you're well-informed.

NTR operates a computer thrift store where you can purchase:

• Desktop computers, refurbished and very affordable. Mostly PC, some Mac. All backed by a three-year warranty (and you don't have to ship your computer anywhere).
• Laptops. Call for availability, as it is sometimes difficult for us to keep enough in stock.
• All sorts of peripherals and accessories. As in any thrift store, you never know what nifty little rarity you'll discover here!
  • We regularly stock expansion memory, flash drives, USB cables, power supplies, keyboards, PS/2 and optical mice, external hard drives, and a whole lot more.
  • Some items are used and so can be had quite cheaply. Some we had to buy new.
  • We also have a selection of computer books, some out-of-print and available nowhere else -- ditto for software CDs.
• Through the store, we also now have a repair service. Have your computer fixed right here!
• Good feelings: When you shop at NTR's Computer Thrift Store, your money does not end up in the pockets of some billionaire shareholder but with a hard-working bunch of folks who actively care about and serve the poor, seniors, disabled, Philly schoolchildren, ...

Take the Photo Tour!

From outside, through the entrance, and all through the store, you can have a look right here. Take the tour.

See Our Flier!

Here's the latest (4/26/2010) version of the NTR Computer Thrift Store flier (PDF).

Price List

This price list (in PDF format) tells you not only our base computer prices but also what's included and what's optional. If you can't or would rather not download a PDF, here's a handy HTML version of the price list.

Price list is up-to-date as of 4/29/2010.

Hours and Location:

Mon-Fri, 10-6
Sat, 10-4

Hours are up to date as of 4/26/2010.

The store is located in the same building with all our other programs:

1524 Brandywine St
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Phone: 215-564-6686

In the Learning Through Technology (LTT) program, NTR distributes donated, refurbished computers to low-income people (especially children and families) through their community groups, churches, and schools.

A minimum of 2 hours of computer hardware orientation is included with each machine: In small classes, students learn how to set up and partially disassemble the computer. They receive basic instruction about the various parts. Their attention is directed to the software that we've already loaded into their machine. Special attention is paid to the maintenance programs, such as anti-virus, anti-spyware modules, and the hard-disk defragmenter. At the end of each class, students take their machine home in the confidence that they know how to set it up when they get there; they can prevent problems and take advantage of our three-year guarantee if necessary; and they have a sense of what components can be added to their machine to make it even better when their computing needs increase.

NTR has distributed nearly 5,000 computers to individuals and organizations since 1997. NTR’s reuse program was created with leadership from John Zelson and with volunteers from the Americorps*VISTA program of the Corporation for National Service. Call or write to find out how your clients or staff can take advantage of NTR’s services.

Bring A Computer Ask A Question (BACAAQ) is a hands-on workshop that after several years in operation remains extremely popular. We offer to help you repair, upgrade, or use your own computer. Or, you're welcome to bring new components, accessories, or software that you want to install, whether you bought them in our Thrift Store or elsewhere.

Bring your computer. For most desktop computers, you can bring almost nothing but the central unit, because you'll be sitting at a station that already has a monitor, keyboard, mouse, power cords, and an Ethernet connection to the Internet. If you have any specialized components that you'll need, such as an external power supply for your laptop, or USB keyboards or USB mice, you should bring those. Also, we recommend that you back up your data before you come.

This event is often noisy and very busy. It's a room full of people working on computers. We won't be "teaching" in the usual sense, so please come prepared to ask a question, solve a problem, or learn how to do something specific.

Previous BACAAQ workshops have been highly successful: The growing number of participants had most of their problems and issues solved. In fact, this workshop became so useful that the School District of Philadelphia gave NTR a grant to provide this service to K-12 students, so don't be surprised to see young faces in the room.

BACAAQ workshops are facilitated by staff instructors and experienced volunteers. Most of these people are so well qualified that there's an excellent chance that the fair-market value of the time and attention you receive will exceed $100!

BACAAQ sessions are held on the third Saturday of every month (except July and August) from 2 to 5 PM. The fee for each session is $15; if you have a child in the Philadelphia School District, it's $5. To sign up, come see the friendly staff of our Computer Thrift Store.

Please register for these sessions in advance. Walk-ins will be turned away.