The Reconnect Project CEO, Annette Brodie with Bank of Sydney CEO, Melos Sulicich
With cost-of-living pressures rising and e-waste mounting, The Reconnect Project has been awarded Bank of Sydney’s $20,000 Grant for Good to expand its work refurbishing technology, supporting disadvantaged Australians, and providing vital first jobs for neurodivergent youth.
Based in Penshurst NSW, The Reconnect Project refurbishes donated laptops, tablets and mobile phones, diverting them from landfill and re-homing them with families, individuals and community groups in need. The organisation also trains and employs neurodivergent young adults as technicians, offering vital first jobs and a safe environment to learn, upskill, and gain confidence.
The $20,000 funding will allow The Reconnect Project to employ two technicians and purchase essential materials for repairs, keeping more than 100 laptops in circulation and out of landfill.
“The impact of this grant will go far beyond providing devices,” said The Reconnect Project CEO, Annette Brodie.
“It means more young adults can access meaningful employment, and more families get the technology they need to study, work, and connect. We’re grateful for Bank of Sydney’s support in helping us tackle both the digital divide and Australia’s fastest-growing waste stream.”
Bank of Sydney CEO, Melos Sulicich, said “At Bank of Sydney, we’re proud to support community initiatives like The Reconnect Project that make a real, lasting difference, – their model is innovative, sustainable, and deeply human. It not only prevents e-waste but helps people find opportunity and dignity. We’re excited to see the direct and meaningful impact they’ll create with this grant.”
Lives transformed
The program often offers neurodivergent young adults their first taste of employment. One such technician, Wilbur, joined as a shy volunteer after leaving school due to bullying. Today, he is second-in-charge at the workshop, confidently leading customer enquiries and mentoring others.
The impact reaches far beyond the workshop. From elderly residents needing smartphones to connect with health services, to women in refuge rebuilding their lives with refurbished laptops, the devices rehomed by The Reconnect Project open critical doors for vulnerable Australians.
About The Reconnect Project
The Reconnect Project partners with more than 170 social service organisations, including Vinnies, Barnardos, and Glebe Youth Services to distribute its refurbished devices.
Founded in 2019 by Annette Brodie, it has grown from a $5,000 crowdfunding campaign to a thriving team of nine, and storefront in Penshurst. It’s simple motto: small actions have big impact.
For donations of pre-loved devices or more information, visit https://thereconnectproject.com.au/
INDEPENDENT NEWS IS IMPORTANT.
PLEASE GIVE WHAT YOU CAN: PayPal.Me/clevergreensolutions
Enjoy reading Eco Voice? Please help us by purchasing a GIFT Voucher or send one to a friend and encourage people to purchase trees or seeds via The Native Shop – www.nativeshop.com.au
Plants, seeds & more delivered to your door!
