News9.com - Oklahoma City, OK - News, Weather, Video and Sports | Norman Nonprofit Program Provides Computers to Disabled

Norman Nonprofit Program Provides Computers to Disabled

Posted: Updated:
With grants and private funding on the decline, the Ambucs program is looking at closing down entirely at the end of May. With grants and private funding on the decline, the Ambucs program is looking at closing down entirely at the end of May.
Ambucs will have to relocate from their warehouse to a smaller building. Ambucs will have to relocate from their warehouse to a smaller building.
Employees like Ben Rhue do the restoration, including building computers just for kids. Employees like Ben Rhue do the restoration, including building computers just for kids.

By Gan Matthews, NEWS 9

NORMAN, Oklahoma -- A computer is a necessity these days for most of us and a Norman nonprofit knows that and tries to help. Ambucs gives people with disabilities computers, but after 12 years the tough economy could cause the program to crash.

At the Sooner Ambucs office in Norman the computers come and go. Dalton Daugherty came all the way from Bartlesville for his.

"It's pretty cool because this will be my first one," said Daugherty. "I did play on one, my mom's computer, but his will be the first time on my own."

Rebuilding computers for the disabled was the idea of Purcell resident Linda Durbin. After she was diagnosed with MS, she found a computer lifted her spirits.

"And it helped her so much," said Program Director Adri Anne Trammell. "She thought, 'Well, if it helps me this much it's bound to help other people.' So, she started it on that basis."

Over the years businesses and private individuals have filled a warehouse with old computers.

The program has distributed more than 6,000 computers all over Oklahoma. For the people who work there, the rewards are personal.

"I get lots of hugs, some 'God bless yous'" said program employee Suzan Aktensel. "I meet some nice people and I know it connects so many of them to the outside world."

But the future of the Sooner Ambucs computer program is in doubt. The program is going broke, and by the end of the month it will have to vacate the warehouse and move to a smaller building.

"I cry every time I talk about it, so it's pretty sad," Trammell said.

The Sooner Ambucs computer program is still accepting cash donations. Learn more about the program and how you can help.

You must be logged in to rate this story. Login or register
Comments
Terms of Use: Terms of Use: We welcome your participation in our community. Please keep your comments civil and on point. You must be at least 13 years of age to post comments. In addition, by submitting a comment, you recognize that your comment may be read or discussed on one or more television news broadcasts on NEWS 9 and you consent to any such use. By submitting a comment, you agree to these Terms of Service
You must be logged in to leave a comment. Login or register
See all comments
Close windowBranding

Norman Nonprofit Program Provides Computers to Disabled

Close window

Local News More>>

6 Murder Counts Filed in Multiple Homicide Case

A former Marine faces six counts of first-degree murder in the fatal shootings of four people whose bodies were found inside a burning house. More>>

Metro Musician Provides Harp Therapy

A local musician is offering her own form of health care to those in need. She's using her harp and its soothing melody to help patients at a metro hospital. More>>

Operation HealthCare: Global Health

All this week News On 6 reporter Ashli Sims has been following the health care reform bill. More>>

Charges Expected Against Nichols Hills Doctor Next Week

Investigators expect charges to be filed next week against a Nichols Hills doctors accused of fatally stabbing his 9-year-old son. More>>

Links Mentioned On NEWS 9 More>>

The economic turmoil is taking its toll on Oklahoma. News9.com tracks unemployment and layoffs in the state.    More>>

Follow NEWS 9 on Twitter

Twitter fans can now follow the NEWS 9 staff. More>>

Online Express Check-in Will Save Time at H1N1 Clinics

The Oklahoma City-County Health Department has announced a section on their Web site titled "Easy Check In" will now be available for those intending to attend H1N1 clinics. More>>

Black Friday Deals Online Early

The Black Friday deals are normally released in the Thanksgiving Day ads, but some shoppers are getting a head start by looking online. More>>

My 2 Cents

Catch Kelly Ogle's opinion on today's news and events!

Making A Difference

People that make a difference in your everyday life.

Your Life Your Way

Amy McRee's insight on life's issues.

Consumer Watch

Find relevant information on the latest products!

Your Vote Counts

Debates on issues important to you the viewer!

Tech Talk

Fast facts on technology for today's consumer!

Stay informed on all of Oklahoma's weather.

Powered by WorldNow
All content © Copyright 2000-2009, WorldNow and KWTV. All Rights Reserved.
For more information on this site, please read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Help Page.