Asheville Homeless Network's Networking the Network project gets the power of portable computing into the hands of Network members. Whether to help find employment, contact loved ones, or work on projects for the Network, the netbooks and laptops we get into the hands of Network members are powerful tools off communication and self-empowerment.

First, the Network is always looking for more donations of gently used laptops or netbooks to increase its program's reach.

Computer donations can be brought to our weekly meetings, Thursdays at 2pm to Firestorm Cafe on Commerce St in Downtown Asheville or mailed to

Asheville Homeless Network P.O. 205 Asheville, NC 28802

We also need those with computer skills/technical savviness who can successfully data wipe donated computers and/or restore them with Ubuntu Linux or other open-source GUI OSs. If you didn't understand those names and acronyms, we're not looking for you.

• Anyone * A laptop or netbook you're no longer using. * Passion for empowering the homeless population with the tools of the 21st century. Technical Help * Familiarty with Ubuntu Linux and Windows OSs. * General familiarity with data wiping, system restoration, and OS installation.