Recycling Technology, Empowering Communities

Reducing E-Waste Through Computer Reuse

Computer reuse can significantly reduce electronic waste in the United States by keeping devices out of the waste stream and extending their useful lives. With global e-waste already at 62 million metric tons in 2022 and projected to reach about 82 million metric tons by 2030, the opportunity to reduce this growth through reuse is substantial. Currently, only about 12% of electronic products are reused or refurbished before disposal, and less than 35% of e-waste is formally recycled, leaving the vast majority for computers at risk for ending up in landfills where toxic materials can harm the environment.

Limited Computer Access Among U.S. Households

2024 U.S. Census Bureau data showed that 17.7 million U.S. households—about 1 in 7.5—lack a home computer, relying only on smartphones or having no device at all. This included 13.2 million smartphone-only households and 4.5 million with no computing device, meaning 13–14% of households lack adequate computer access.

Our Solution

Recycled / donated computers are refurbished whenever possible and placed into the hands of local families, students and nonprofits who need affordable access to technology. Items that cannot be reused are recycled using R2v3 Certified downstream recyclers, fulfilling our no-landfill commitment and ensuring environmentally responsible processing. All data is securely wiped or the drive is destroyed; donors may remove their hard drives prior to donation if they prefer. We welcome computer equipment from both individuals and businesses.

Our Mission

Empowering underserved communities by providing affordable, refurbished computers while promoting responsible e-waste practices through secure recycling.

Our Vision

Our dream is to create a digitally inclusive Greater Cincinnati where everyone – regardless of income or background – has affordable access to technology, empowering education, employment, and community engagement while championing sustainable reuse and responsible recycling of electronic equipment.

Our Incredible Team

Cincinnati Computer Reuse Board of Directors

Walt Fischer

Chairman
Walt is a Founder of Cincinnati Computer Reuse and the Volunteer Recycling Coordinator.

Peg Fischer

Treasurer
Peg is a Retired Educator who was a Principal and Director of Special Education.

Colleen McSwiggin

Secretary
Colleen is a Coordinator at Sustainability Central.

Jeff Rauh

Member
Jeff has been involved with CCR for several decades in various board positions.

John Lierer

Member
John is Network Administrator at Dohn Community High School and a CCR Board Member since 2007.

Deante Smith

Member
Deante is a Law Enforcement Officer with the City of Cincinnati.
Tim Mecklem

Tim Mecklem

Member
Tim is Managing Partner at Launch Scout.
Larry Porter

Larry Porter

Member
Larry is Retired from UC’s Center for Business Analytics.
Josh Lopez

Josh Lopez

Member
Joe McGuire

Joe McGuire

Emeritus
Joe is a Founder of Cincinnati Computer Reuse and an IT Services and Process Improvement Specialist.
founded in 2002

Cincinnati Computer Reuse History

Cincinnati Computer Reuse was founded in 2002 to address the growing educational technology gap impacting students, families, and nonprofits across Greater Cincinnati. The organization’s work began in 1997 through a volunteer-led effort that demonstrated how donated corporate computers could be professionally refurbished and deployed as complete computer labs in schools. This early success revealed both the academic impact of access to technology and the need for a dedicated nonprofit focused on sustainable computer reuse. Established originally as the Cincinnati Computer Cooperative, the organization built strong partnerships with local businesses, financial institutions, and the General Electric Elfun Society, which provided early funding, equipment, and facilities. Participation in Microsoft’s Registered Refurbisher Program ensured that every distributed computer included properly licensed software—an essential component for safe and effective learning. Over time, Cincinnati Computer Reuse expanded its services beyond schools to support nonprofits, seniors, and low-income households, ensuring students and families have reliable tools for homework, research, communication, and digital literacy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization adapted operations to meet urgent demand for remote learning, reinforcing its critical role in educational continuity. Today, Cincinnati Computer Reuse continues to empower communities by increasing access to affordable, dependable technology, strengthening educational outcomes, and supporting lifelong learning. As an active member of the Colerain and Clermont Chambers of Commerce, the organization remains committed to collaboration, accountability, and measurable impact throughout the Greater Cincinnati region.

Annual Report

Read our latest annual report on the work we have done for our community.

IRS 990

Review our most recent financial filings with the IRS.

513 Green Certified

Hamilton County Solid Waste District has recognized CCR as a 513 Green Certified nonprofit. This designation reflects the standards we hold ourselves to every day—responsible technology reuse, secure and environmentally sound recycling practices, and a commitment to reinvesting refurbished computers back into the community for households below the poverty line. 513 Green Certified

Candid Platinum

Candid Platinum status reflects our commitment to transparency and accountability, giving donors confidence in how we steward our mission and resources. Platinum Transparency 2026 - Candid

Your generous support creates access, fuels education, and opens opportunity.