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Local nonprofit Charitable Recycling outlines electronics, data-destruction and reuse programs
Summary
A Dayton nonprofit that collects and processes electronics and other reusable goods told commissioners it provides free pickup for larger donations, performs certified data destruction, and donates proceeds to Dayton Children's Hospital and other local charities.
Rachel Nelson, program director of Charitable Recycling, gave the Dayton City Commission a community update on the nonprofit's electronics-recycling, reuse and data-destruction work.
Nelson said Charitable Recycling is a 501(c)(3) that grew from recycling ink and toner cartridges to accept computers, laptops, printers, televisions, appliances (including freon-bearing units), batteries and office furniture. The organization said nonworking electronics are dismantled, components separated (circuit boards, plastics, metals) and, where appropriate, processed with a Columbus, Ohio partner for recertification so reusable material is redistributed. The nonprofit performs data destruction to Department of Defense standards.
Nelson said the organization picks up five or more items at no charge and already receives equipment donations and pickups from several city departments (City Hall, Municipal Court, Water Department, Housing Department, Fire and Police). Reusable household goods are routed to Wicked Thrift Store in West Liberty for resale, with proceeds donated to Dayton Children's Hospital.
In response to commissioner questions, Nelson said the program has returned more than $50,000 to Dayton Children's over time and that she would provide the commission with more precise tonnage or item-count figures for the last year upon request. She said Charitable Recycling is working with the Montgomery County Solid Waste District to secure warehouse space for drop-offs and that Sinclair, University of Dayton and Wright State have been partners in laptop donations to literacy and community groups.
Nelson described future plans including citywide Earth Day-style recycling events and pilot efforts to recycle textiles into packing material or animal bedding after treatment with borax to provide a fire-retardant product. Commissioners thanked her and asked staff to share contact information; Nelson provided a business number at the meeting.
