Empowering Lives Through Technology: Angelina's Story

When life suddenly throws you a curveball, having the right gear—and the right people—can make all the difference. Angelina's story is a beautiful reminder of how a simple laptop, paired with thoughtful, respectful support, helped her move past a rough patch and take back control of her professional life. Her experience with TEK Collaborative proves the incredible power of helping people when they need it most.

Facing Unexpected Challenges

 At the close of 2024, Angelina found herself in a truly tough spot: not only was she laid off, but her trusted tech had failed her.

Let's hear her story in her own words—it says it best:

"Dear TEK Collaborative, I want to follow up with a heartfelt thank you for the incredible work you do and the meaningful impact you’ve had on my life. At the end of December 2024, I was laid off due to funding cuts and... A few months into unemployment, I began to feel extremely stressed about my job search. My laptop had broken, and I simply couldn’t afford to replace it. I was relying on a device that was over 10 years old."

Imagine trying to restart your career with a broken device and no budget for a new one. It quickly became an impossible hurdle:

"I searched for support programs, but many had requirements that didn’t fit my situation, like completing a 'basic computer skills' course I didn’t need in addition to traveling long distances... The library had strict time limits on computer use, making it nearly impossible to complete job applications or write cover letters. It felt like barriers were being placed in front of me when I most needed help."

Finding a lifeline

Angelina's path eventually led her to TEK Collaborative, and right away, she noticed a refreshing change. She was treated like a person, not a checklist.

"Then I found your organization and reached out by email. From the start, the process was simple, respectful, and human. You didn’t make me jump through hoops or disclose excessive personal information. You trusted that I was a laid-off professional in need of a practical tool... and you gave me exactly that. I was amazed and deeply moved by that level of trust and dignity. I fully support training programs for those who need them, but I’m so grateful that TEK Collaborative recognizes that not everyone’s situation is the same, and that you offer your services with flexibility, empathy, and respect."

More Than Just a Device...

With a reliable laptop, Angelina could finally stop worrying about unreliable technology and fully focus on landing a new role.

"Thanks to your support, I was able to quickly resume my job search and, by May 2025, secured a new role as a Program Director... I’m thriving in my work and feel fulfilled again."

But the true impact wasn't just professional; it was personal—it gave her family stability when they needed it most:

"Most importantly, your support allowed me to maintain stability for my son, Liam... Because I was able to get back on my feet quickly, I didn’t have to make painful sacrifices regarding his education, I was able to continue paying his school tuition and supporting his extracurriculars. I also regained access to my medical team... The laptop you provided helped me message doctors, manage insurance, stay organized, and so much more. This simple resource supported our lives at a time of need and many stressors."

Our takeaway from Angelina's Story

We believe Angelina’s heartfelt message drives home what true, effective support looks like:

• Technology is a must-have, not a nice-to-have, for everything from job hunting to managing your family's health and education.

• Empathy over bureaucracy wins every time. When programs trust people, they remove roadblocks instead of adding them.

• Dignity matters. Treating someone with respect makes the support even more powerful.

• Practical tools are lifelines. As Angelina perfectly put it, "It is because of this laptop that I can even write you this thank you letter."

For those wanting to make a difference, Angelina offers a beautiful reminder:

"Please continue your amazing work and keep your process barrier-free for those who are in need... I believe deeply in your mission. One day, I hope to give back, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. You helped me when I needed it most, and I’ll never forget that!"

We would like to thank Angelina for sharing her story with us. It's stories like hers that show the truest impact of the work we do!