Two for Tuesday: Technology for Good

If last week’s discovery of the Heartbleed bug offered any take-aways, it’s that the world depends on technology. When news of the bug broke, frustration and an elevated technophobia ensued.

Despite the fact that some people can view aspects of technology as an invasion of privacy and others fear technology causes division in society, technology has become an essential component to today’s world.

Today, Google Glass is finally available for purchase to anyone (that is, anyone with an expendable $1,500). Herein lies the division in society; technology has evolved in such a way that it’s essential, but the latest gadgets aren’t as accessible for everyone. While some see technology causing a further separation between the haves and the have-nots, others see technology’s potential to improve the quality of life for everyone. This Two for Tuesday, take a look at two organizations make essential technology a little more accessible to those who really need it.

Homeless, Not Hopeless

The organization Homeless GoPro plans to use GoPro video camera footage to depict the day in the life of San Francisco’s homeless. Kevin Adler, a sociologist and education technology entrepreneur, founded the organization because he was moved by the death of his homeless and mentally ill uncle. Extreme sport athletes with the means to access this technology have been primarily GoPro users, sharing their perspective and adventures through the lens. Now, Homeless GoPro hopes to utilize this technology to create compassion and understanding among viewers. The organization launched its experiment on Monday with homeless man Adam Reichart. Volunteers will watch Reichart and others with the GoPro to ensure safety. You can read Reichart’s story.

Technological Treasure

The United Cerebral Palsy Seguin of Greater Chicago is literally making one person’s junk another’s treasure. This organization is providing refurbished computers to disabled students through the Assistive Technology Exchange Network (ATEN). The recycled computers help students navigate schoolwork, build independence and socialize online. On average, this program gives special education students about 4,000 computers every year. For more information, or to donate, visit ATEN.

Cover Photo Source: successo images

[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://wpmaster.sjadv.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Our-Space-Kristi.png[/author_image] [author_info]Kristi is a Junior Executive at SJG. She graduated with a BS in Advertising and Public Relations from Northern Arizona University. She bleeds blue and orange, or red, or blue and red, depending on the season. Kristi spends her free time cheering on her Chicago teams, volunteering and exploring different neighborhoods. She also enjoys snowboarding, mixology and writing, but avoids doing them all at once (snow patrol tends to frown on that).[/author_info] [/author]