In collaboration with Vistek Ltd., used digital cameras will be collected from the public and provided to the Fig Tree Foundation (FTF) Roundtable Participants (RTP) for use on various potential projects.
Three Calgary based organizations and current roundtable participants have been selected to participate in this initiative:
1. Africa Book Project (operating in Kenya)
2. Canadian Humanitarian (operating in Ethiopia)
3. True Vision Ghana (operating in Ghana)
Each organization will develop community-based projects that incorporate the best possible use for cameras. Fig Tree Foundation has outlined the following guidelines for the pilot projects:
In collaboration with local communities in developing counties, participating organizations will design projects that address or meet the following guidelines:
1. Avoid hand-outs and give-aways at the community level
2. Project creates opportunities at the community level
3. Project is as fair and equitable as possible
4. Project is sustainable or will become self sustaining
5. Project is potentially scaleable and replicable
6. Demonstrated grass roots participation and/or input
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 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. The Africa Book Project, True Vision Ghana and Fontaine Children’s Charity Foundation are the participating roundtable organizations.
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.
You can also download a detailed PDF file of the Initiative plan by clicking here.