The Oxnard College Adopt-A-Computer program provides computers for students who can’t afford a new computer to use at home for their school work.

“The first time I opened a personal computer (PC), it was a 386 system back in 1998,” said Albert Gesling.

Gesling is the equipment manager for the program that got started in February 2000 with computers collected from Moorpark College.

“My daughter Laura Berwick worked with Dr. Priscilla Garcia here at Oxnard College and the two of them got the ball rolling,” said Gesling.

Donated computers are worked on by volunteers who get them ready to use. The operating system is Windows 98 or later and can be loaded with software that the students use for their school work.

Students can apply for a computer by showing current enrollment at Oxnard College, a valid ID, and proof of financial need. For example, special programs like CALWorks, Financial Aid, etc. If they qualify, a fee of $65.00 is collected for processing, rental and one full year of support service. At the end of the year the student may keep the computer. If they upgrade to a better system they can donate the computer back to the program.

They sign up for a schedule an orientation class the same day the computers are handed over to them. The orientation covers how to set up the computer at home, basic usage, and correct common errors.

Applications can be obtained from the Campus Resource Center, beside the bookstore on the OC campus. The Adopt-A-Computer program is looking for volunteers who would like to put in their skills and time to get these computers into the hands of students in need. This can be used for Internship credit and a way to get experience in PC hardware and software servicing.

For more information please contact Augie Castaneda at 805-986-5842 or email [email protected].

Lead Technician Elio Lopez (left)comments about a hard drive that Al Gesling (right) just installed in a donated PC.