Laptops available to local nonprofits

Houston-area nonprofits needing to modernize their information technology capabilities have until Sept. 14 to apply to receive up to three gently-used laptops through accounting firm Padgett Stratemann and Co.’s Computer Donation Program.

The Padgett Stratemann firm is expanding the Computer Donation Program to include the Houston region. Through the program, the company will donate 100 “gently-used” laptop computers to nonprofit charitable organizations in the area.

The firm launched the program in 2010. Since then, more than 130 Texas-based nonprofit organizations have received laptops, helping them update outdated computer needs that their operating budgets may not have the funds to do.

Padgett Stratemann has offices in San Antonio, Austin and Houston and works with clients in several sectors including construction, energy, entertainment, financial, government, nonprofit, health care, manufacturing, retail distribution, technology and real estate.

“We are extremely excited to bring this program to Houston,” said Jim Jones, managing partner of Padgett Stratemann’s Houston office, located at 1980 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1100. “Being able to support the area’s nonprofit organizations and having the opportunity to help them fulfill their missions is something we hope will build a stronger community.”

According to the accounting firm, the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce, Christian Senior Services, Green Spaces Alliance, Austin Humane Society, IDEA Public Schools, Greenlights for Nonprofit Success, Boys and Girls Clubs of the Austin Area and Manos de Cristos are some of the organizations that have received computers from the program.

Applications for the new donation cycle are being accepted through Sept. 14. An application is available on the company’s website at www.padgett-cpa.com. To qualify, applicants must have a 501(c) (3) designation from the Internal Revenue Service and must have been in operation for at least five years. Complete qualification details are available on the firm’s website.

Organizations selected may receive up to three recycled laptop computers.

Nonprofits chosen to receive computers are to be announced in October.