Sick Friend Letters
We get a lot of email to the Info@ list. Most of it is pretty much what we see in Volunteer@, but every so often we get some specific kinds of requests.
This page has to do with info@ emails containing questions in the line of "I can't volunteer, can I still get a computer?" all the way to "I have this friend, they can't volunteer, can you give them a computer?"
The short answer to both of these questions is NO--but that's unhelpful. In these cases, having some sort of set response covering the 'high points' is a good idea. Below is a short (slightly modified) example, sent in response to a recent request:
Hi there!
We do our best to ensure that folks of *every* ability level can come in and earn their own computers. Not only does this foster self-worth, but there are some very simple tasks--floppy deconstruction, data entry, battery sorting, label-making--that Adoption volunteers can do for us. Other low-physical-impact stations around here include Keyboard Testing and Speaker Testing, and all jobs need to be done. Plus, there's no replacement for the amount you can learn and people you can meet, just by *being* in the building.
Ideally, we want volunteers to donate hours for their *own* computers. If that's absolutely impossible, though, do you or your friend know anyone that can volunteer in their place? Family members and friends (from school, community groups, social service agencies) are often willing and able to help. Bring in a few at a time, and they can pool their hours! Most people know someone, and they might be willing to help acquire a computer from us. Remember, we're open Tuesday through Saturday, eleven to seven pm--that fits into most folks' standard working schedule. Our only requirement for volunteers, still, is that they take an orientation tour of Free Geek. These are held at noon, and again at five pm, every day Tuesday through Saturday.
Please write back with any questions; we'll do our best to answer.