[scotty1024]

So I've started beating the drum to enhance the accessibility features of the Kindle 2 but I also want to get the drum going for the Kindle 1.

Many of the simple things I've suggested for the Kindle 2 can be back-ported to the Kindle 1.

In addition I think Amazon is perfectly positioned to handle the logistics for a new program I want to kick off here: Giving Back to America.

Amazon could offer up a check box on their Kindle 2 page that notes "We notice you have a Kindle 1 registered to your account. Would you care to participate in the Giving Back to America Program?"

This program would send you a shipping box and return label for your existing Kindle 1. You'd pack it up and give it to a handy UPS drop box or carrier and it would be transported back to Amazon. They would inspect the unit and upgrade its firmware to the latest disabled accessibility levels. The units would then be made available as donations to various agencies that could distribute the units to needful disabled users (whom could still somehow afford content).

Once the donation was made the original owner would get a certificate by mail in the name of the accepting organization. Said certificate could be framed and/or photocopied for the IRS.

This program could eventually expand to include the ability to donate brand new Kindle 2's or simply to donate unwanted/unneeded Kindle's.

In the future the program could of course then expand to allow donations of other helpful assistive technology devices. People often don't realize just how helpful a simple digital camera can be to a person with reduced vision. That old MP3 player could find new life playing audio books for someone in need or for a disabled senior to enjoy music in their final years.