Meeting Recap + Next Steps

[wilhelmjennifer]

Hi All,

This morning we met to debrief from the Tech Chats and talk about the future of the Codefest.  I would encourage you to read all the way to the end and provide feedback to the group. 

Debrief

We had 15 organizations across all the events, with mostly different issues.  However, we were able to pick out a few needs that popped up more than one:

1. Physical infrastructure (wiring, wifi, A/V)

2. Connect core systems (CMS, CRM, email, etc.)

3. General web development

No clear app challenges emerged from any of the Tech Chats, which lead to a discussion at the meeting around potential steps forward for the Codefest. We narrowed it down to the following possibilities and then voted:

1. Business as usual – Codefest event, app creation (0 votes)

2. Codefest – other approach (1.5 votes, much discussion)

3. Use our resources, talent, time to assist GiveCamp - potentially expanding it (4 votes)

4. Do Nothing (0 votes)

5. Expand TechChat (1 vote, much discussion)

As you can see, no one felt we should forge ahead with the previous app building model.  Instead the votes landed on either using our resources to bolster Give Camp into a larger event or creating a new version of Codefest that would not center around apps. There are, of course hybrids of these options and it was felt that expanding the Tech Chats - having one full day of longer discussions - could be beneficial by itself. 

Part of the discussion did center around the fact that the URA is not able to commit resources to funding a coordinator, nor is the URA able to take on the role of coordinator.   The Forbes Funds support, if any, is still unclear, and BNY Mellon Foundation is not planning any further support.  

The positive thing is that we all feel the Codefest is a great event and has had many positive outcomes. The URA would continue to have a representative on the committee and likely sponsor the event (whatever form it may take). The people at the meeting this morning - Ben, Sean, Josh, Deb, Ellen, and Todd are all keen to find a path forward. Josh is going to coordinate further discussion. I will let him chime in if he has anything more to add at this time.  I am stepping away from the committee as I have a new position at the URA but Ellen will remain involved. 

I, for one, have been very proud of the work we have done to create the Codefest brand and everything that goes with it. I believe there are lots of opportunities to continue making an impact.

That is my recap.  Anyone else in the meeting who wants to add something I might have missed please do so.  Also, those of you who couldn't make it this morning please feel free to give your thoughts or vote. 

All the best,

Jennifer

 

[Sean Battis]

Jennifer,

  Regardless of how we choose to move forward as a committee, thank you for the work you've done to bring together the tech community and non-profit/government groups.  We could not have been successful these past years without the significant time and effort you've put into Codefest.

Thank you. 

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[Mike Capsambelis]

Yes! Thank you, Jennifer, for building and leading an initiative that has had significant impact in the community, bringing together so many people and organizations to find creative solutions for the challenges faced by nonprofits and the people they serve. It's been a pleasure working with you on Codefest and I look forward to future collaboration with you in your new role!

Mike Capsambelis | Product Management | Google Pittsburgh | mike...@google.com

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