Join us in supporting victims and survivors—because every device has the power to save a life.
911 Cell Phone Bank Newsletter
October 2025
From Lost & Found to Lifelines
Park & recreation facilities manage more than play—they manage community trust. Discover how structured lost & found policies can prevent risks and turn unused devices into tools for saving lives.
The 911CPB Mystery Drawer Challenge
We’re launching our first-ever Mystery Drawer Challenge! Here’s how it works:
Snap a picture (or share a story) of the strangest, funniest, or most unexpected item in your junk drawer or lost-and-found or property-and-evidence room.
Tag us on Facebook or Instagram (@911cellphonebank), and use the hashtag #911CPBMysteryChallenge
On December 15th, we’ll announce the winners: one for “Most Unusual Junk Drawer Find” and one for “Most Unusual Lost-and-Found Discovery.” Each winner will receive a prize that is way more useful than that old charger you’ve been holding onto.
With Survivors, Always: DVAM 2025
Survivors deserve support always, not just when it's convenient. That’s why for Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2025, we’re lifting up this years theme “With Survivors, Always” message through this press release.
More than 30 missing kids brought home by ‘Operation Lightning Bug’
Thanks to law enforcement for joining forces to bring these kids home. 👏
Donate unused/unclaimed cell phones to assist victims of trafficking at 911cellphonebank.org
Hotels & Sustainability: Why Lost & Found Policies Matter More Than Ever
Sustainability is top of mind for today’s travelers. More than 80% say it influences their hotel choice.
One often-overlooked area where hotels can advance sustainability is in how they manage unclaimed items in lost & found, especially electronic devices.
What will your organization do this year to give back?
This Giving Season, we’re encouraging supporters to plan ahead to expand that impact by collecting unused phones from within their company, or even inviting the local community to take part.
It’s a powerful, simple way to give back, and we’re here to help make it easy.
✅ Custom poster and social media graphics with your logo and device drop-off locations
✅ Zero cost, zero e-waste
We’re honored to support the Park County Sheriff’s Office Victim Services team as they help survivors of domestic violence rebuild safety and independence. Hearing that our program is one of the “best and most reliable resources” means so much to us and reminds us why we do this work: helping every survivor stay connected when it matters most.
How National CleanUp Month Shines Light on Unused Electronics
National CleanUp Month isn’t just about clearing trash from parks and sidewalks. It’s also a reminder to look inside—at the closets, drawers, and lost-and-found rooms overflowing with unused electronics. These forgotten devices, when properly donated, can keep harmful waste out of landfills and even become lifelines for victims in crisis.
Upcoming Conferences
From Las Vegas, to Orlando, to Temecula, our team will be attending the following conferences.
If you’re planning to attend any of these events, let’s schedule a meeting!
📅 Upcoming Conferences
IMEX America – Las Vegas, NV | October 7–9
WWA Show – (World Waterpark Association)
Orlando, FL | October 20–23Tribal Security & Surveillance – Temecula, CA | October 28–29
IAAPA Expo – Orlando, FL | November 17–21
👉 Contact us at info@911cellphonebank.org or call 866-290-7864 to schedule a time to meet!
Virginia Aquarium collects 218 pounds of cell phones
The e-cycling event held by the Virginia Aquarium in September was a success!
- 31,958 pounds of electronics were kept out of the landfill
- 218 pounds of cell phones that will be donated to survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence through 911 Cell Phone Bank
Congrats to all involved!
APTA & 911 Cell Phone Bank: Strengthening Safety Through Sustainability
Every day, thousands of people ride public transportation, sitting shoulder to shoulder with strangers. Among them may be someone living a nightmare, a victim of human trafficking or domestic violence. These stories are not distant or abstract; they are today’s reality and could happen to anyone...
🌟 Highlights from the APTA Conference in Boston! 🌟
We were proud to attend this year’s APTA Conference and celebrate the incredible achievements of our partners and supporters:
🏆 Megan Howell – Eastern Contra Costa
🏆 Jim Gee – RTC Reno (Best Marketing & Communications to Increase Ridership of Sales)
🏆 MARTA – (Best Marketing & Communications on Workforce Development)
A special thanks to APTA Membership Director Linda Gill Anderson for her leadership and dedication.
We also had the opportunity to join inspiring sessions like Breaking Barriers: Lessons from Innovative Programs and Partnerships. Two standouts:
👶 Onsite Daycare for Drivers – presented by Karen Kauffman, helping ensure operators have the childcare support they need.
📚 “Story Train Days” – launched by Annette Landeros at Trinity Metro, giving families free books to enjoy together while riding. (Read more: https://ridetrinitymetro.org/storytime-train/)
We’re energized by the creativity and collaboration across the transit community and grateful to work alongside such dedicated leaders!
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