Second Boot collects donated and discarded laptops, data-cleanses and rebuilds them on Ubuntu Linux with curated open-source software, then deploys them through a structured digital literacy program. Completion of the program awards a device. We serve schools, recovery communities, elderly adults, youth, veterans, the economically marginalized, and the incarcerated or previously incarcerated — meeting each group where they are.
♻️
Hardware Recovery
Collect donated laptops from businesses, schools, and individuals. Diagnose, repair, and triage at partner makerspace.
🔐
Data Cleanse & Rebuild
Secure data destruction using NIST-compliant wipe tools. Fresh Ubuntu LTS install with curated educational software stack.
🎓
Literacy Seminars
Modular classes in computer basics, internet safety, social media, and AI literacy. Adapted per audience.
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Device Award
Program completers receive a refurbished laptop as a tangible reward for learning and commitment.
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Ongoing Support
Help desk, community Discord/Signal group, drop-in repair hours, and alumni mentoring pipeline.
02 · Hardware Pipeline
From Donation to Deployment
01
Collection
Schools, businesses, individuals drop off or schedule pickup. Partner with IT departments for bulk corporate donation.
02
Triage
Boot test, RAM/SSD check, screen/keyboard assessment at makerspace. Grade A/B/C. Flag for parts or recycling.
DBAN / nwipe secure overwrite. Document each device's wipe certificate for donor records and liability.
05
OS Install
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS via bootable USB. Configure user accounts, accessibility settings, and curated app stack.
06
QA & Log
Final checklist. Assign unique device ID. Log specs in inventory database. Tag for program track.
07
Award
Presented to program graduate. Paired with orientation on care, support resources, and community access.
03 · Ubuntu Software Stack
What Goes on Every Device
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS base. All software free, open-source, and maintained. No bloatware.
📄 Productivity & Office
LibreOffice SuiteWord, spreadsheet, slides
ThunderbirdEmail client
OnlyOfficeMS-compatible editing
Obsidian / JoplinNotes & knowledge base
PDF ArrangerPDF tools
🌐 Internet & Communication
FirefoxPrivacy-first browser
Brave BrowserAd-blocking browser
Signal DesktopSecure messaging
Element (Matrix)Community chat
KDE ConnectPhone/PC sync
🎓 Education & Learning
GComprisK-12 activities
Scratch (browser)Visual coding for kids
AnkiFlashcard learning
StellariumAstronomy education
Khan Academy (offline)Offline curriculum
💼 Job Skills & Career
VSCode / CodiumCoding editor
Python 3 + IDLEEntry-level coding
InkscapeGraphic design
GIMPImage editing
Resume templatesPre-loaded LibreOffice
🤖 AI & Media Literacy
Ollama + Open WebUILocal AI chat (offline)
AudacityAudio recording
OpenShotVideo editing
ShotwellPhoto management
Second Boot Welcome AppCustom onboarding guide
🔒 Privacy & Safety
BitwardenPassword manager
uBlock OriginAd & tracker blocker
TimeshiftSystem restore/backup
Gufw FirewallSimple firewall UI
ClamAVAntivirus
Local AI Note: On devices with sufficient RAM (8GB+), install Ollama with a small model like Llama 3.2 3B or Phi-3 Mini. This lets participants explore AI tools offline — especially valuable for incarcerated or connectivity-limited populations. Pair with the AI Literacy seminar module.
04 · Curriculum
Seminar Tracks
Each module is self-contained and audience-adaptable. All can be delivered in-person, hybrid, or at partner sites. Completion = device award eligibility.
MODULE 01
Computer Fundamentals
What is a computer? Hardware overview
Navigating Ubuntu desktop
Files, folders, and storage
Typing skills and keyboard shortcuts
Managing updates and software
Basic troubleshooting
⏱ 2–3 sessions · All audiences
MODULE 02
Internet & Online Safety
How the internet works (simply)
Safe browsing habits
Recognizing phishing & scams
Password hygiene & Bitwarden
Privacy settings on accounts
Public Wi-Fi risks
⏱ 2 sessions · All audiences
MODULE 03
Social Media Literacy
Platform landscape overview
Algorithms and how they shape what you see
Fake news and misinformation detection
Privacy and oversharing risks
Digital footprint and reputation
Healthy use patterns
⏱ 2 sessions · Teens through adults
MODULE 04
AI Literacy & Tools
What AI is (and isn't)
How large language models work
Hands-on: ChatGPT, Claude, local Ollama
Spotting AI-generated content
Using AI for job search and writing
Ethics, bias, and limitations
⏱ 2–3 sessions · Adults & older teens
MODULE 05
Job Skills & Career Tech
Writing a resume with LibreOffice
Email etiquette and Gmail/Thunderbird
LinkedIn and online job boards
Video interview preparation
Using AI to write cover letters
Google / LinkedIn certifications roadmap
⏱ 2–3 sessions · Adults, recovery, reentry
MODULE 06
Creative & Expressive Tech
Photo editing with GIMP
Basic video with OpenShot
Audio recording with Audacity
Graphic design with Inkscape
Blogging and personal website basics
Portfolio creation
⏱ 2–3 sessions · Youth, recovery expression
MODULE 07 ✦
Coding Foundations
What is programming? Why learn it?
Scratch for visual learners / younger participants
Complete Modules 1–4 or chosen specialization path. Attend minimum 6 sessions. Peer presentation or project.
Refurbished Laptop (Grade A) + Accessories
YOUTH TRACK
After-school program: 8 sessions over a term. Complete Scratch or Python mini-project. Parent/guardian orientation.
Laptop + Backpack + Learning Bundle
SENIORS TRACK
4-session dedicated seniors curriculum. Buddy system with volunteer. No test — completion-based award.
Laptop + Setup Support Visit
MENTOR GRAD
Program alumni who return to mentor others. Earn upgraded device or accessories as recognition.
Upgraded Device or Tablet
Ceremony matters: Host a quarterly "graduation" event. Invite partners, donors, press. Let participants share their story. This is your most powerful fundraising and awareness moment.
07 · Workforce Development
Jobs Inside the Program
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Hardware Technician Trainee
Train marginalized adults, recovery graduates, and reentry participants in laptop triage, repair, and OS installation. Earn CompTIA A+ study materials. Path to paid role.
👩🏫
Peer Instructor
Program alumni who complete an instructor training track become paid or stipend-based facilitators for their own community group. Lived experience as a teaching asset.
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Logistics & Intake Coordinator
Manage donation intake, inventory tracking, device logging. Entry-level IT operations role with documentation and database skills development.
🎨
Content & Media Creator
Produce social media, documentation, tutorial videos, and community newsletters using the same tools taught in class. Portfolio-building role.