MERS/Goodwill Computer Works Program Certified by the Department of Natural Resources

Oct. 7, 2015 - PRLog -- MERS/Goodwill’s Computer Works program, which provides job opportunities for individuals with Development Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder, was recently certified by the Department of Natural Resources. After an inspection of the electronic recycling process, the nonprofit has been recognized for adopting the Missouri e-cycle Standards, also known as MOEST, as the agency’s standard operating procedure.

“We are thrilled to receive the MOEST certification,” said Lewis C. Chartock, Ph.D., President and CEO of MERS/Goodwill. “This recognizes MERS/Goodwill as one of few electronic donation opportunities in the area while assuring our donors and supporters that our organization manages the program with full transparency and accountability.”

Computer Works is one of many employment service programs that MERS/Goodwill offers to the community. Through funding and grants received the Computer Works program provides one-on-one assistance to individuals with disabilities, helping them develop skills they will use forever. Upon completing the program, participants find themselves able to move on to more supportive careers.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that more than two million tons of televisions, cell phones, computer products, and other electronic devices are disposed each year. Only about 20 percent of those materials are recycled. Through the MOEST program MERS/Goodwill is certified to safely destruct hard drive data on-site and the organization works with local partners to safely dispose of devices that cannot be recycled.

“It is the people from St. Louis and the surrounding areas that support our mission,” said Cynthia Bourgeois, Coordinator of the Computer Works program. “The community involvement has gone above and beyond and we hope for it to grow with our new certification. If you have an old computer, please drop it off at your nearest Goodwill location.”

MERS/Goodwill needs 325 computer donations per day to successfully serve its clients. Computers can be donated at any Goodwill store in Missouri and Southern Illinois. St. Louis-area businesses that are making a larger donation can arrange for pickup by calling 314-703-0907.

About MERS/Goodwill
MERS/Goodwill is a nonprofit agency that provides for the vocational needs of individuals who have barriers to employment through disability or economic disadvantage. Annually serving more than 60,000 individuals, the organization operates in 75 locations serving 74 counties in the bi-state area. Revenues from 42 Goodwill stores assist with funding MERS/Goodwill job training and employment services. MERS/Goodwill is a proud member of the United Way. For more information about MERS/Goodwill or to find a Goodwill donation center near you, call 314-241-3464 or visit www.mersgoodwill.org.