Before Black Friday: A Simple Way to Help Nebraska Robotics

As we head into Thanksgiving week, we want to say thank you to everyone who supports gainingSTEAM — parents, coaches, volunteers, and, most importantly, the students who make this season so rewarding.

Quick Ask Before the Black Friday Rush

If you're planning to upgrade laptops, tablets, TVs, projectors, Raspberry Pis, or PA systems during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, gainingSTEAM can put your older equipment to work.

We use donated devices directly for running VEX IQ tournaments — scoring tablets, judging devices, livestream displays, check-in stations, field-side screens, and more.

What Helps Us Run Tournaments

If you're upgrading, here's what we can use right away:

Event Technology

  • Laptops
    Windows, Mac, or Chromebook — if it powers on and can browse the web, we can use it.

  • Tablets
    iPads, Android tablets, or Fire tablets for scoring and judging.

  • Raspberry Pis
    Used for field control and event tech.
    Supported models: Raspberry Pi 3B, 3B+, 4B, or 5
    (Older models like Pi Zero, Pi 2, Pi 1, and A-series are not compatible.)

  • Large TVs (40" and up)
    For rankings, match results, livestreams, and field displays.

  • Projectors
    For bright gym environments — we need high-lumen projectors:

    • 3,500+ lumens minimum
    • 5,000+ lumens preferred for clear visibility under gym lighting

  • USB webcams
    Helpful for livestreaming and field monitoring.

  • PA Systems / Speakers
    Useful for clear announcements, opening ceremonies, and awards in noisy gym environments.

Event Equipment

  • Surge protectors and power strips
  • Lightweight storage totes
  • Portable carts or rolling bins
  • Lightly used extension cords

(If you're unsure whether something helps — just ask!)

Why It Helps

Your donated equipment helps us:

  • Support more tournaments in the Omaha metro area
  • Improve reliability and visibility for teams and spectators
  • Stretch our nonprofit budget further
  • Equip multiple events happening on the same weekend

Every device we can repurpose is one less thing we have to purchase.

How to Donate

Send us a quick message at [email protected], and we'll coordinate pickup or drop-off.
We can also provide a tax acknowledgment letter if you need one.

Thank You

Your support — whether through equipment, volunteering, or cheering on students — helps us create smooth, welcoming robotics tournaments for young engineers in our community.

From all of us at gainingSTEAM:
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and good luck with the Black Friday deals!