OneCommunity, the local nonprofit broadband provider, has a new goal of putting 50,000 computers in Northeast Ohio schools over the next five years.

The idea behind the "Green Computing" initiative is to give students technology skills for the workplace and, in turn, drive economic development in the region. The organization is calling on corporations to donate computers and other equipment so they can be refurbished and given to schools in 22 counties in Northeast Ohio.

For businesses, its a tax-deductible way to get rid of old computers, which contain hazardous waste and typically cost money to dispose of, said Scot Rourke, president and chief executive of OneCommunity.

The organization has partnered with RET3 Job Corp., a business that specializes in wiping clean and refurbishing computer systems. Seemingly obsolete computer systems will be updated for use in education. But any equipment that cannot be used will be recycled, and proceeds from the raw materials sold will support the program.

Rourke said most schools in Northeast Ohio receive ultra-high speed Internet service through OneCommunity. By the end of the year he expects his organization to provide access to 90 percent of schools in the region, largely thanks to a $2 million grant from the Cleveland Clinic.

The computer donations will help students better take advantage of the high-speed network, as well as a platform for teachers, called OneClassroom, that allows schools access to educational resources -- such as free content from organizations like the Clinic and Ideastream -- and distance-learning technology.

"We're trying to inspire kids through technology so they can continue their education and be prepared for industries that need more people, like the health-care industry," Rourke said. "Local employers are looking for the best and the brightest, and hopefully they will come from right here in Northeast Ohio."

Any regional school is eligible to receive computers as they become available, whether or not the school receives Internet access through OneCommunity, Rourke said.