| By Pak-Tjun Chin,
on 24-02-2009 07:03
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Views : 735  |
Favoured : 64 |
The 'NAB - Telstra Helping Hand Program' focuses on extending the lifecycle of re-usable hardware assets, by donating them to charitable organisations or and re-integrating them into communities in need. The Helping Hand initiative is firmly founded on the principle of partnership between Telstra, NAB and other Technology Partners. The Helping Hand operations are absolutely free and independent of any commercial interests amongst the companies involved. The program invites profit and not-for-profit organisations as well as interested individuals to join their cause.
The intent was to establish a Technology Resource Hub within relief centres in locations affected by the bushfires. Each hub is made up of a bank of computers with printers, internet access and photocopying facilities. People in communities affected will be able to use the Hub to access the internet, prepare documents, print, photocopy and scan material, and general communications. It can also be used for homework and social networking.
Bushfire Relief Centre, Healesville
We were amongst other 'hubs' like Centrelink, Department of Human Services, Victoria Police, etc. All these 'hubs', located close together, was to offer a 'one-stop-shop' solution to bushfire victims.
During my time at the technology hub, I assisted in addressing and helping people mainly with telecommunication-related queries like how to re-direct landline calls to a mobile, or how to obtain a free refurbished computer, etc. In between, I helped the Australian Red Cross serve food and drinks to people queing for services at the hub.
Rebekah from Telstra and me in front of the Technology Hub
On the way back home, I delivered a couple of personal computers (PC) to another relief volunteer headed to other bushfire relief centres. These PCs will eventually make their way into a bushfire victim's home.
It was a very heart-warming experience for me being there at the relief centre. Even though there was so much pain on some faces, but there was also so much love, kindness and compassion on other faces. Everyone was trying their best to help the community get through a truly difficult times.
I would really encourage all of you to consider volunteering your time and energy at one of these bushfire relief centres. I am sure that your life would be enriched by the experience.
Last update: 24-02-2009 19:26
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