Trade in your old phone at Verizon and you can help schools get up to $4 million in tech resources

NEW YORK, March 09, 2018 -- The digital divide in education is real. By 2020, 77 percent of all jobs within the United States will require technology skills, yet millions of our students lack the technology and resources needed to succeed in the era of innovation. As a result, many of these students are lowering expectations for their future.

To help address this issue, Verizon will donate $1 per eligible phone trade-in up to $4 million to DonorsChoose.org to help provide tech, like tablets, laptops, 3D printers, VR gear, and other emerging technologies, to under-resourced schools across the nation. Donations will be made through DonorsChoose.org, a nonprofit organization that empowers public school teachers across the country to request much needed materials and experiences for their students.

“By giving under-resourced schools access to more technology and resources, we're helping to innovate the way teachers teach and students learn. This program empowers Verizon customers to directly support our shared mission of preparing students for the tech careers of the future,” said Justina Nixon-Saintil, director of corporate social responsibility for Verizon.

Five years ago, Verizon launched Verizon Innovative Learning, the education initiative of the Verizon Foundation, to provide free technology, access and innovative curricula to students in need to help prepare the next generation for a future filled with opportunity. Since that time:

• 59 percent of students who have participated are more proficient in STEM subjects,
• 53 percent are more interested in studying STEM, and
• 53 percent are more engaged in school.

“We need to ensure that all kids, no matter their zip code, have access to the technology and educational resources they need,” said Nixon-Saintil. “Not just for the kids’ benefit, but because the world needs them — their brains, their creativity and their experiences — to create amazing solutions that will make our world a better place. We ask our customers to join us in this effort.”

*From March 5, 2018 to December 31, 2018, for every in good working condition eligible trade-in device accepted at Verizon Wireless stores and online at verizonwireless.com, Verizon will donate $1, up to $4 million, to DonorsChoose.org to provide free technology resources to under resourced schools. The list of eligible trade-in devices is located at https://www.verizonwireless.com/digital/promos/device-trade-in#/.  

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) (Nasdaq:VZ), headquartered in New York City, generated $126 billion in 2017 revenues. The company operates America’s most reliable wireless network and the nation’s premier all-fiber network, and delivers integrated solutions to businesses worldwide. Its Oath subsidiary reaches about one billion people around the world with a dynamic house of media and technology brands.

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Media contact:
Andrew Testa
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Twitter: @andrewtesta