“Through partnerships like this, we’re able to keep tech out of landfills and put it into the hands of people who need it most.” -Gabe Middleton, Co- Founder and CEO of Human-I-T
Technology has the power to either create bridges or deepen divides, and Human I-T is an organization dedicated to making sure it serves as a bridge—especially for communities without access to essential digital resources. Over the past 12 years, Human I-T has made significant strides in closing the digital divide, focusing on repurposing unwanted technology to support underserved populations. But they aren’t doing it alone.
As part of TD SYNNEX’s broader Corporate Citizenship efforts, the partnership with Human I-T represents one of the many ways we contribute to social impact and environmental sustainability. Our global reach and commitment to responsible business practices allow us to address two critical challenges: digital inequality and environmental sustainability. This partnership is just one of many initiatives where we leverage our scale to drive positive change for communities and the planet.
Human I-T’s Dual Mission: Technology Access and Environmental Responsibility
Co-founded by Gabe Middleton, Human I-T was born from his belief that technology shouldn’t just be for some—it should be for all. “I’ve always loved technology,” Middleton explains, “and wanted to share that with as many people as possible.” However, Middleton also saw the growing issue of electronic waste (e-waste), which was rapidly becoming a major environmental concern.
To bridge both gaps—access and sustainability—Human I-T repurposes unwanted technology, preventing e-waste from ending up in landfills while providing crucial tools to underserved communities. This approach not only addresses the pressing need for technology access but also helps reduce the environmental footprint of discarded electronics.
The Partnership: A Collaborative Effort to Tackle the Digital Divide
The digital divide is a persistent issue, with millions in the U.S. and approximately 2.6 billion people worldwide still lacking access to basic digital resources like computers and high-speed internet.
“We make it easier for organizations to do good,” Middleton explains.
By partnering with TD SYNNEX, Human I-T is able to amplify its impact. TD SYNNEX’s contributions through financial support and donations of unused technology from coworkers play a vital role in expanding Human I-T’s reach, ensuring that those in need have access to crucial digital resources. In return, Human I-T helps TD SYNNEX meet growing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and regulatory requirements by diverting e-waste from landfills and promoting responsible resource management.
Collaborating to Address ESG and Regulatory Requirements
In the four years of working together, the collaboration has led to the donation of more than 145,000 devices, which Human I-T has refurbished and distributed to families in need. Together, Human I-T and TD SYNNEX have diverted over 100,000 pounds of e-waste from landfills, ensuring that these devices are used to bridge the digital divide rather than contribute to environmental harm.
As of the last reporting in our FY23 Corporate Citizenship Report, 119,000 of these devices have been refurbished and distributed, and over 51,000 pounds of technology has been diverted from the waste stream. These figures represent a snapshot of our ongoing impact, reflecting our shared commitment to sustainability and digital inclusion.
The Third Annual Direction of Technology Report found that 37% of respondents see ESG standards as one of the top challenges for the next two years. This partnership directly aligns with those findings by demonstrating how businesses can combine sustainability with social impact—ensuring both environmental and social goals are met.
The partnership’s success goes far beyond the numbers. Middleton stresses that it’s about outcomes, not just outputs.
“It’s not just about handing over a laptop or devices,” he explains. “We focus on real lives changed.” Whether it’s helping students improve their grades, enabling job seekers to apply for opportunities, or empowering single parents with access to vital online resources, the impact is clear—lives are being transformed.
Together, TD SYNNEX and Human I-T have enabled over 100,000 individuals to access affordable high-speed internet, and more than 15,000 people have received digital literacy training. In the latest FY23 Corporate Citizenship Report, these numbers continue to grow, providing critical digital resources and education to underserved communities. These are real, tangible changes, opening doors to education, employment, and personal growth.
Our Shared Mission for a Sustainable Future
“Technology is everywhere, but access is not.”
Recently, coworkers from TD SYNNEX’s Greenville, SC, and Fremont, CA, locations joined forces in an ongoing e-waste drive, successfully collecting and donating 241 pounds of technology between the two locations to support Human I-T’s mission. This initiative has grown significantly over the years, expanding its reach and impact. In 2022, the e-waste drive was open to all U.S. coworkers as a virtual event, requiring participants to ship their items to Human-I-T. In 2023, the initiative remained open to all U.S. coworkers, with a virtual option for those outside Clearwater, FL, and an in-person event for Clearwater-based coworkers. By 2024, the e-waste drive was offered both virtually for all U.S. coworkers and in-person for those in Greenville and Fremont. Originally, Clearwater was also planned as an in-person location, but the event was canceled due to Hurricane Milton.
This initiative is more than just a recycling effort—it’s a proactive response to the growing demand for sustainability practices, which was highlighted in this year’s Direction of Technology report.
With many partners seeking solutions to meet increasing ESG and regulatory requirements, TD SYNNEX and Human I-T’s collaborative effort provides a blueprint for how organizations can reduce environmental harm while enhancing digital inclusion. “When organizations like TD SYNNEX step up, it’s a game-changer for both the environment and the communities we serve,” Middleton notes.
As the partnership between Human I-T and TD SYNNEX grows, so does the scale of their impact. By continuing to work together, both organizations are reshaping the digital landscape—empowering communities, reducing environmental impact, and setting a new standard for how businesses can lead meaningful change. “It’s about creating opportunities for people to reach their full potential,” Middleton says.
Be sure to watch our entire interview with Gabe Middleton, CEO of Human I-T on YouTube.
Explore more about how TD SYNNEX is driving sustainability and addressing ESG challenges in our latest FY23 Corporate Citizenship Report, where you can discover how we’re making a positive impact on the environment and communities through innovative partnerships and responsible business practices.
