Five years ago, Pivotal surveyed our scholars to understand if they had access to the technology they needed for school. We were shocked to learn that only about 40% of our students had access to a reliable laptop. 

“To do my schoolwork, I either had to spend hours at the local library or write my papers on a tablet,” said Destiny, a former foster youth and Pivotal scholar attending San Jose City College. “I didn’t have internet at home, so I had to go sit on a random floor in my apartment building to borrow someone else’s internet signal.” 

Laptops are critical for a student to succeed both in high school and in college and became even more essential when classes shifted online during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, while high schoolers are provided with laptops, they have to turn those in upon graduation. We knew we had to ensure our scholars had the tools they need to succeed and were excited when Acer stepped up to solve this problem. 

Thanks to Acer’s incredible generosity, over 300 Aspire laptops have been distributed to Pivotal scholars over the years. This year, Pivotal’s graduating high school seniors will all receive Aspire 3 laptops to take with them as they continue their education. We’ll also have a few extra laptops for our middle school and post-secondary scholars who may need them, or for students who have an emergency need. 

Why It Matters 

“Being able to give a laptop to a student in need has truly been a game changer. Before this partnership, it could take weeks or even months to get students a laptop, and they would lose critical learning hours, days, and weeks.” - Matt Bell, Pivotal CEO

“I broke my computer when I was attending university, but when Pivotal provided me with a new one, it saved my classes. I was able to finish my remote courses with less stress. Thank you so much for providing this program for us.” - Elizabeth, Pivotal Alum

"School is important to me. I am expecting and working hard to get my GED before the baby comes. Receiving this laptop from Pivotal is so important so I can get my work done and achieve this goal!" - Ebony, Pivotal high school Scholar 

“The need for reliable technology at home is crucial for college students. By allowing us to send our graduating seniors into the next phase of their education with reliable laptops, Acer is helping us ensure that our grads have all the tools they need to succeed.” - Dazzy Maldonado, Pivotal High School Coach Supervisor

“When I started at San Jose City College, Pivotal gave me a laptop and it really helped as I started my program. It makes you feel more confident, like you fit in, when you have all the tools you need to be successful.” - Jennifer, Pivotal Alum 

Looking Ahead 

We are so grateful to Acer for their continued support and commitment to helping our scholars succeed. Together, we’re closing the technology gap and ensuring foster youth have the resources they need to build brighter futures.