Youth Venture

Computers have definitely made life easier. The Internet gives us the ability to communicate and exchange information with our friends, families, and even the rest of the world. But what if you don’t have either in your home? Finding a computer and accessing the Internet can be tricky, but it’s not impossible.

OK, so where do I look?

A Friend’s House

Ask around your group of friends to see if they have computers and internet access at their home. See if they will let you come over and use it. If needed, set up a weekly schedule that is convenient for everyone.

A Relative’s House

Maybe your immediate family doesn’t have a computer or internet at their house, but what about grandparents, aunts and uncles, or even your cousins? Ask your relatives if you can stop by some afternoons after school or on the weekend to use their computer. Not only will you get some work done, but you’ll be spending more time with your family!

Your Parent’s Office

Try arranging a couple of hours a week when you can go to your parent or guardian’s office and use their computer while they get some other work finished.

The Public Library

Many public libraries have computer labs or centers for the general public to use. Visit your local library to find the nearest location that offers public computers.

Your School’s Computer Lab

Stay after school a few days a week and take advantage of the computer lab at your school. It saves you the trouble of traveling somewhere else, and maybe you’ll even get some of your homework finished too!

Your Local Community Center

Check out community centers nearby or organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, which usually have computers for public use. These places have many programs and services available just for youth, so make sure to contact one to find out what opportunities are available.

Also consider…

• Finding an internet café in your area, or a coffee shop. Sometimes there are a few computers available for the public, so you can enjoy a cup of coffee and use the internet.
• Seeking out local business and/or computer stores to find out if they will donate old computers.
• Visiting your local FedEx/Kinko’s or UPS Store location. Many offer computer workstations featuring programs and software packages, with internet access. Some branches also have laptop docking stations, and WiFi internet access. Keep in mind these stores charge for computer work.

References:

1. Greene, Marvin V. “The Internet on every corner- use outside of the home.” Black Enterprise. Nov. 1997.
   http://www.blackenterprise.com/ArchiveOpen.asp?Source=ArchiveTab/1997/11....

2. Information from FedEx Kinko’s website, http://www.fedex.com/. 12/14/06 1:09pm.

© Youth Venture, 2007. All rights reserved.