A picture can be worth much more than a thousand words...
Fig Tree Foundation (FTF) and Vistek Ltd. collect used digital and film cameras from the public for use
in developing countries by Roundtable Participants (RTP’s) in various community based projects that incorporate the best possible use for
the donated cameras.
In collaboration with local communities in the counties in which the RTP’s operate, participating
organizations design projects that address or meet all of the following guidelines:
1. Project avoids hand-outs and give-aways at the community level – Wherever possible, the
selected projects avoid giving hand-outs, which can create dependency and diminish dignity and
are unfair and unsustainable.
2. Project creates opportunities at the community level – The selected projects create
opportunities within the community, including economic, business, educational/vocational,
personal and social.
3. Project is as fair and equitable as possible – The selected projects strive to be fair on both the
micro and macro levels, avoiding distortion of the local business environment and duplication or
displacement of previously existing business or activities in the community.
4. Project is sustainable or will become self sustaining – The selected projects withstand
the “walk-away test,” meaning, the project can continue or contribute on its own after the
organization removes its involvement.
5. Project is potentially scaleable and replicable – Wherever possible, the selected projects are
replicable in like communities and have potential for use or application in other projects.
6. Project demonstrates grass roots participation and/or input – The selected projects take a
participatory approach to design, implementation and operation.
“The questions is not what you look at, but what you see”
Henry David Thoureau
What kind of cameras are you looking for?
We can accept any digital camera in good working order. However, the following criteria are preferred:
* In good working order and NOT in need of repair
* Digital
* Point and shoot
* Use “AA” batteries
* Low maintenance
* Easy to use
* Durable
* Re-chargeable digital cameras with accompanying chargers
We CANNOT accept cameras that are broken or in need of repair.
What about other camera equipment?
We can accept any camera equipment in good working order. Please keep in mind that this equipment will be used in communities in the developing world that may not have access to specialized equipment that may require repair, as well as certain consumables.
Do you only accept used cameras?
We can accept both new and used digital and film cameras.
Will I receive a tax receipt for my donation?
No. A tax receipt will not be issued for the donation of your camera. However, if you have a very valuable camera that you would like a tax receipt for, we recommend you sell the camera and donate the funds to the Fig Tree Foundation (for a receipt).
What will be done with the cameras?
All cameras collected will be inspected and reviewed for appropriateness and usability. The cameras will then be distributed to participating organizations for implementation of their projects.
Any cameras that are deemed inappropriate but that have resale value will be sold with the funds going to this initiative through Fig Tree Foundation.
Any cameras that are not usable or sellable will be recycled through Technotrash LTD., who have ensured us that 99.5% of the materials will be recycled.
What do you hope to achieve with this initiative?
Through the implementation of community-based projects by the participating Roundtable groups, it is our goal to:
* Improve reporting on current development projects underway in developing countries
* Improve opportunities for advocacy and entrepreneurship
* Develop vocational training in the use of the cameras
* Explore any other grass roots opportunities that may arise leading to improvement in the local communities and the lives of its members.
Who is involved in this initiative?
This initiative is a collaboration between the Fig Tree Foundation and Vistek Ltd. All roundtable
organizations are encouraged to participate and submit project proposals and cameras are distributed
to every project that meets the aforementioned guidelines, limited only by camera availability.
Participating organizations thus far have included: Canadian Humanitarian, True Vision Ghana, and
the Centre for Water and Sanitation Technology.
Will donors be able to follow up on the progress of this initiative and view images that are being produced in the field?
Yes of course! We encourage donors to stay engaged. Please return to the Fig Tree Foundation website for updates and links to on-line albums containing images that are/will be taken in the field. Stay tuned!
Where can I drop off my used digital camera?
Cameras can be dropped off at any Vistek Calgary location, during store hours. There are two locations:
Vistek Calgary Downtown
1231 10th Avenue SW
Calgary, AB
403-244-0333
Monday – Friday 8:30am – 6:00pm
Saturday – 9:30am – 5:00pm
Closed Sunday
Vistek Calgary Willow Park
10816 Macleod Trail SE
Calgary, AB
403-313-3331
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00am – 6:00pm
Thursday 10:00am – 8:00pm
Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Who should I contact for more information or if I have questions?
If you have any questions or comments please contact info@figtreefoundation.org. A response will be provided within 48 hours.
For more information about the creation and development of the Camera Initiative, you can also
download the PDF of the Pilot Project Plan here.