The Refurb Project
The Sarasota Technology Users Group (STUG) is dedicated to promoting technology education and access by sharing knowledge about hardware, software, and digital devices within the community. Through its Refurb Project, STUG refurbishes donated technology and provides it at no cost to nonprofits, students, and individuals in need, helping bridge the digital divide while reducing e-waste.
Who we are?
History and Values
The Refurb Project launched in 2004 to address community needs by:
- Accepting donations of used computers, smartphones, tablets, peripherals, and other digital equipment.
- Refurbishing (repairing, updating, and renovating) the items using volunteer efforts.
- Donating the refurbished technology at no cost to qualifying non-profits, low-income individuals, disadvantaged students, and other community members
- By late 2025, the project reached a milestone of 25,000 refurbished computers donated to individuals and organizations in need.
Join us in making a difference
Equipment Donations accepted: Computers, monitors, printers, tablets, peripherals (hard drives, CD/DVD readers/writers and other computer items) on the Windows or Apple platforms. We can wipe your computer, removing all your personal files, just let us know when you drop it off.
Our Mission
In today’s world not having a computer (laptop) can be a disadvantage for students or those looking for a job. The Sarasota Technology Users Group Refurbishing Project addresses this issue by donating reconditioned computers to individuals and non-profits in the community. To fulfill the requests for computers, the Refurb Project accepts donated computer equipment. The equipment is checked, cleaned, and has new software loaded on to it prior to going to its new home. To learn more about the Refurb Project (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zy3i1XhOZpc):
Our Approach
The group partners with local organizations like Goodwill, Children's Guardian Fund, and The Patterson Foundation for device drives and distribution. All of the work is done by volunteers. Thanks to your past donations and the tech equipment you’ve generously gifted, we’ve been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people in our community. We’re asking for your continued support with a donation so we can keep this vital work going strong.
Our Next Events
Empowering Lives Through Computers
You’re not just engaging in . You’re contributing to real, tangible change.
Join us transforming lives through computers.
- Request a Computer
If you (or a non-profit organization) need a computer or other tech equipment but cannot afford to purchase one, the STUG Refurb Project may be able to help.
To request assistance, please send an email to refurb@thestug.org that includes:
Your full name
Your phone number
A brief explanation of your situation and why you cannot afford to purchase a computer
Your request will be reviewed. If approved, a refurbished computer will be provided at no cost. Pickup must be arranged at our shop.
- Donate Computers
We gratefully accept donations of working or repairable computers, monitors, printers, tablets, peripherals (such as hard drives, CD/DVD drives, keyboards, mice, etc.), and other computer-related items on both Windows and Apple platforms.
We will securely wipe all donated computers to remove personal files before refurbishing them.
Equipment can be dropped off at our shop during open hours (no appointment needed for regular hours).
Shop
Location:
3949 Sawyer Road ∙ Sarasota, FL 34233
Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 10:00 am to Noon (no appointment needed)
For other times, please call ahead to ensure someone is available.
Telephone: 941-539-7401
Email: refurb@thestug.org
- Education
Our parent organization, the Sarasota Technology Users Group (STUG), provides high-quality education on today’s personal technology products. Sessions are held virtually via Zoom and cover popular software, computers, tablets, smartphones, and more.
For details and the current schedule, visit the STUG website: www.thestug.org
The group partners with local organizations like Goodwill, Children’s Guardian Fund, and The
Patterson Foundation for device drives and distribution. All of the work is done by volunteers.
Thanks to your past donations and the tech equipment you’ve generously gifted, we’ve been
able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people in our community. We’re asking for
your continued support with a donation so we can keep this vital work going strong.
