Tag: #501c3

Auctions can be an effective way to dispose of many types of unclaimed property, but electronics are a different story. Cell phones, tablets, laptops, and smart devices contain sensitive personal data, depreciate quickly, and often generate far less revenue than organizations expect. Before sending your unclaimed electronics to auction, consider the hidden costs, potential risks, and why a secure donation program may provide greater value for your organization, your customers, and your community.

July is Cell Phone Courtesy Month, a reminder to be more mindful of how we use the devices that are always within reach. From putting away distractions during conversations to safely disposing of old phones, small habits can make a big difference for both the people around us and those in need.

Plastic Free July is a global movement encouraging people to reduce plastic waste through simple, sustainable choices. From reusable water bottles to responsibly recycling old electronics, discover five practical ways to make a positive impact on the environment this month and beyond.

Every donated device has a story. Some hold years of family memories, conversations, and connections. When LeAnn donated her late mother-in-law Evelyn’s phone to 911 Cell Phone Bank, she wasn’t simply recycling an old device. She was continuing a legacy of kindness. Discover how one family’s heartfelt donation reminds us that a device’s story doesn’t end when it’s no longer needed. Sometimes, it’s just beginning.

Starting over after domestic violence is not instant, and it is not linear. This blog shares survivor-centered reminders about safety, housing, routines, and support services, plus why safe connection matters.

Our 2025 Annual Report is now available, and it reflects what your support made possible this year. In 2025, 911 Cell Phone Bank securely processed 94,737 devices and diverted 70,222.66 lbs of electronics from landfills. Devices were securely data-erased and routed to responsible outcomes, including 87,264 repurposed for reuse and 40,974 sent to certified recycling when reuse was not possible. Read the report and see the impact that was made.

Domestic violence can involve more than physical harm. It can include isolation, coercion, and technology-enabled monitoring that makes it harder for survivors to safely reach help. This national resource guide outlines practical steps, trusted hotlines, and why access to a secure phone can be a lifeline. Learn how donating unused and unclaimed devices through 911 Cell Phone Bank can support survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.

Super Bowl LX offers a chance to raise awareness about human trafficking and empower communities to recognize the signs of exploitation and know how to respond. Learn what indicators to watch for, how to report suspected trafficking safely, and how you can support survivors.

Teen dating violence affects thousands of young people each year and can include physical, emotional, sexual, or digital abuse. Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in February is a time to learn the warning signs, promote healthy relationships, and support survivors. Discover how providing safe communication through donated devices can make a real difference.

Identity theft can happen to anyone and often goes unnoticed until real damage is done. This Identity Theft Awareness Week resource explains common warning signs, how fraud occurs, and practical steps you can take to protect your personal information and devices.

Human trafficking affects every community, with 1 in 6 endangered runaways likely becoming victims and more than 21,000 survivors identified in 2024. Many escape with only the clothes they are wearing, cut off from loved ones and support. This month, learn why something as simple as a donated cell phone can give survivors the ability to stay safe, connected, and supported.

Selling unclaimed devices can look like a conflict of interest and damage guest trust. Learn a safer option with verified data erasure and donation.

Evidence rooms across the country are overflowing with unclaimed and outdated electronics—taking up space and creating unnecessary headaches for law enforcement. Instead of letting these devices sit idle, there’s a smarter solution. By securely clearing and repurposing electronics through the 911 Cell Phone Bank, agencies can clear valuable storage space and directly help victims of abuse and human trafficking.

Discover 5 electronic devices that will be obsolete by 2026, and learn what’s replacing them. Plus, find out how to recycle old gadgets responsibly with 911 Cell Phone Bank!

Many organizations are looking for meaningful ways to give back to their communities. Whether you’re planning a year-end employee initiative, a customer-facing outreach effort, or simply want to make a local impact—here’s an idea that’s simple, powerful, and life-saving.

A recent study revealed that a staggering number of phones sold at online auctions still contain sensitive data. This highlights a hard truth: If devices aren’t securely and professionally wiped, your agency/company could be liable for breaches of privacy, data theft, extortion, or worse. This article addresses the best way to handle these devices without putting the public—or the agency/company—at risk.

What happens to your unclaimed lost and found items matters. Instead of selling them for minor profit, more organizations are choosing to donate—protecting their reputation, simplifying compliance, and making a real impact in the lives of others. Here’s why donating unclaimed property is the smarter, more socially responsible choice.

This year alone, the 911 Cell Phone Bank: 1) Wiped data from 40,125 phones, 2) Recycled 117,020 lbs of e-waste, 3) Helped survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking find safety. Read our full 2024 Annual Report to see how we’re saving lives and protecting the planet—one device at a time.

In a world where change is constant, strong leadership means staying curious and adaptable. Our latest blog explores why lifelong learning is essential for community leaders navigating shifting policies, cultural shifts, and digital transformation.

Over the past 20 years, we’ve worked with law enforcement agencies, victim service organizations, and countless businesses across the country to collect, wipe, and repurpose unused phones and electronic devices. Here are 6 powerful lessons we’ve learned—delivered in 5 minutes or less.

A smartphone walks into a lost and found and mutters, “Last thing I remember was falling between the hotel bed and the nightstand.” If lost phones could talk, oh, the stories they’d tell…

A legacy isn’t built in a single moment—it’s shaped by the quiet choices we make every day. Whether you’re mentoring someone, preserving family memories, or donating your old cell phone to help a survivor, your daily actions can become a light that lasts long after you’re gone. In this article, discover how to live intentionally and leave behind more than just memories.

As businesses strive to meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, many overlook a crucial opportunity: sustainable technology disposal. Properly managing electronic waste (e-waste) is not just about environmental responsibility—it’s also a chance to create positive social impact and strengthen governance practices. Here’s how to identify gaps and take action.

Organizing a charity walk is a meaningful way to support victims of domestic violence while bringing the community together. Proper planning helps ensure the event runs smoothly and reaches as many people as possible. With the right approach, you can raise awareness, encourage participation, and generate valuable support for the cause.

Every community has children facing significant challenges, from poverty and neglect to unstable home environments. These children often lack access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Here are several ways you can help vulnerable children right where you live.

If you are like me, you likely have heard the term “human trafficking,” but never knew the true definition of the term. Before being awakened to the big picture, I conceptualized human trafficking based on what I had seen in movies and TV shows.