Aeras Foundation Inc.

Overview

Aeras Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2020, dedicated to addressing the digital divide by providing access to technology for underserved communities. The organization is based in Winter Park, Florida, and operates under the mission that technology is a necessity rather than a luxury. It seeks to empower individuals and communities by offering renewed electronic devices, thereby enhancing educational and professional opportunities for those in need.

Mission and Activities

Aeras Foundation’s primary mission is to repurpose gently used electronics, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, to ensure equitable access to technology. This initiative is particularly vital in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted significant technology access disparities affecting low-income families and individuals across various demographics. The foundation collects donations of used IT equipment from individuals and organizations, refurbishes them, and distributes these devices to students, nonprofit organizations, and individuals facing technology access barriers.

The foundation articulates its three core tenets:

• Access: Providing resources and connectivity to information and educational opportunities.
• Connect: Transforming donated devices into tools for learning and career advancement.
• Empower: Enabling personal milestones and accomplishments through access to technology.

Aeras Foundation also emphasizes sustainability by ensuring that electronics that cannot be refurbished are recycled responsibly, preventing electronic waste from reaching landfills.

Financial Overview

In its most recent fiscal year ending December 2023, Aeras Foundation reported a revenue of approximately $120,000. The foundation's expenses for the same period were around $158,000. Major revenue sources include:

• Contributions: $100,030 (83.1%)
• Other Revenue: $20,304 (16.9%)

The foundation's total assets were reported at $850,207, with total liabilities of $764,788.

Leadership and Management

The foundation was co-founded by David Collins, who serves as its President. With extensive experience in technology sales and a background in leadership roles within various organizations, Collins drives the foundation’s vision and operational strategy. Other key figures include Gerald Sutton, the Chief Financial Officer and co-founder, who brings over 30 years of business advisory experience, and Marcus Scott, who manages daily operations and community engagement.

Impact and Community Engagement

Aeras Foundation has made significant strides in its mission since its inception. As of early 2025, the organization has collected over 10,000 devices, with more than 3,900 devices successfully distributed to beneficiaries. Through partnerships with organizations such as Quest, Inc., Aeras has provided essential technology, enabling individuals with developmental disabilities to communicate effectively and improve their quality of life.

The foundation’s work has been recognized for not only enhancing individual opportunities but also for promoting educational equity and community well-being.

Conclusion

Aeras Foundation Inc. continues to play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide in Central Florida and beyond. By transforming donations of used technology into valuable resources for those in need, the foundation exemplifies a commitment to fostering access, connectivity, and empowerment through technology.