MacNN today reported Apple has launched a program enabling those upgrading to an iPad 2 to donate their original iPad to a good cause. As opposed to flipping a 1st generation iPad to recoup the cost of an iPad 2, Apple’s program connects iPad owners with those who really need it. In a partnership with Teach for America, Apple’s program matches donated iPads with educators in low-income school districts.
The program—which is featured prominently on Apple’s retail store page —links to Teach For America’s site. Currently information on the program is relatively scarce, though it appears that interested iPad users need only drop their first generation iPads at a nearby Apple Corporate Store. Upon receipt of a donated iPad, Apple will wipe the device, prepare it and bring it to a needy local school district.
Teach For America has yet to disclose whether or not donations will be tax deductible, though as it is a 501©(3) organization, it is likely they will be. While for a good cause, the program has received some initial controversy given the fact that 1st generation iPads are barely one year old, and are still amazingly capable devices. While it is likely Apple and Teach For America will release more information on the program in the coming days, those immediately interested should contact their nearest Apple Corporate Store.