Extending the Life of Technology to Strengthen Community Voices

By electronic recycling association January 19, 2026

At the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA), we believe that access to reliable technology is essential for participation, transparency, and equity in our communities. That’s why we are proud to donate two refurbished laptops to Documenters Canada, a Montreal-based charity that empowers everyday residents to engage in local democracy.

Documenters Canada trains and supports community members—often from underrepresented neighbourhoods—to attend and document public meetings, including city council sessions, committee hearings, and community consultations. Their work helps ensure that important civic discussions are accurately recorded, accessible, and shared with the broader public.

How These Laptops Will Be Used

The two laptops donated by ERA will be used by volunteer documenters to take detailed notes during public meetings. These digital records play a critical role in keeping residents informed about local decisions that impact housing, public services, urban development, and community wellbeing.

By providing reliable, refurbished devices, ERA is helping reduce barriers to participation while also promoting the circular economy through technology reuse.

Sustainable Technology with Social Impact

This donation reflects ERA’s mission to reduce electronic waste while supporting organizations that create meaningful social impact. Rather than ending up in a landfill, these laptops have been securely wiped, refurbished, and given a second life in service of civic engagement.

As a certified IT asset disposition (ITAD) provider, ERA ensures that all donated devices meet high standards for performance, security, and sustainability—so charities like Documenters Canada can focus on their important work.

About Documenters Canada

Based in Montreal, Documenters Canada builds more inclusive local journalism by training community members to document public meetings. Their grassroots model strengthens democratic participation and ensures that diverse voices are represented in civic records.

About the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA)

The Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) is a Canada-wide nonprofit dedicated to responsible electronics recycling, secure data destruction, and digital inclusion through charitable device donations. ERA works with businesses, institutions, and individuals to keep electronics out of landfills and put functional technology into the hands of communities in need.

To learn more about ERA’s donation programs or to donate your used electronics, visit www.era.ca