IEA spearheads computer donations for Afghan refugees at Camp Atterbury
While having coffee with his wife one Saturday, Senior Vice President of Information Technology Brian Newgent came across a news story about an initiative to collect computers for Afghan refugees at Camp Atterbury.
“I’m going to build these people a computer lab next week,” Newgent said to his wife.
And he got to work.
That Monday, he brought the initiative to IEA, quickly getting support from CEO JP Roehm, CFO Pete Moerbeek and the IT group. Moving rapidly and precisely, the IT team gathered around 100 laptops and tablets (several unused) and prepped them for new users to log on.
Rupal Thanawala, the woman who began the initiative at Camp Atterbury, was overwhelmed with the support the Indianapolis community provided.
“I would say my heart is full, said Thanawala. “Thanks to IEA, refugees will be able to make a resume and look for a job. We can give them all the resources to be successful and independent on their own.”
Newgent cited IEA’s strong commitment to giving back as a key part of making the donation possible.
“I’ve been here for fourteen years. I have seen it as a family-run business to where we are today,” Newgent said. “There’s always a theme: we give back to the community. The company has always been people-first.”
The Indianapolis Black Data Processing Associates (BDPA) is also playing a role in this initiative. As a non-profit organization focused on STEM and diversity, BDPA engages individuals of all ages in the tech world. Currently, they’re working with both IEA and Camp Atterbury to collect electronics and establish a partnership for the future.
“This was an opportunity of a lifetime to work on something that these people are all passionate about,” said BDPA Board Member Daniel Pierson. “This partnership with IEA could provide a lot for our young people.”
Now that the laptops and tablets have made their way to Camp Atterbury, Newgent is looking towards the future.
“This is just the start,” he said. “I am looking forward to a batch of interns real soon.”
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