Kerwood grew up under challenging circumstances with learning difficulties. Teachers and others assigned her numerous labels that included “mentally retarded” and “mentally ill.” After a variety of low-paying jobs when she entered the work force, Kerwood was diagnosed with high-functioning autism, and returned to school where she graduated magna cum laude from the University of Oregon. During that time, the student once labeled "challenged,"
“Access to this technology has allowed me to expand in ways that I had no idea that I was capable of,” said Kerwood. “It’s just so wonderful to have that happen -- and then to be able to share that with other people is so, so great.”
With her new skill set and her abiding sensitivity to the issues of the disadvantaged, Kerwood moved her operation beyond a garage and established NextStep Recycling, a non-profit organization that has to date distributed over 11,000 computers both locally and globally, and has recycled more than 1,000 tons of electronic waste. Through NextStep Recycling, Kerwood helps many disadvantaged children today get the opportunities she did not have when growing up. Her organization counts among its staff and volunteers many whom social services have had difficulty in placing in the job market due to long-standing prejudices.
For more information on Lorraine Kerwood and NextStep Recycling, please visit http://www.nextsteprecycling.org/
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