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Posted on January 31, 2012
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Code for America
Founded:
2010
Contact:
Jennifer Pahlka,
Founder and Executive Director
Address:
Code for America
85 2nd Street, Suite 710
San Francisco,
CA
94105
Phone:
(415) 625-9633
E-mail:
info@codeforamerica.org
URL:
http://codeforamerica.org/
NPO Spotlight - Code for America
Mission:
To transform city governments across America by enlisting the nation's most promising developers to apply Web 2.0 principles to civic problems.
About the Organization:
Code for America connects Web developers and city managers who seek to use new technology to improve the provision of services to citizens. During an eleven-month development cycle, partner cities, which are responsible for contributing a portion of the total program cost, host teams of fellows who design projects that can boost the city's openness, participation, education, and efficiency. For example, in Boston, a team developed a map of the city's fire hydrants and encouraged groups to "adopt" them so they were cleared during winter storms. Code for America aims to host a suite of applications all cities can use, fostering the adoption of open source projects across the country and around the world.
Current Programs:
Through a competitive application process, Code for America selects the development fellows and participating cities that will take part in its eleven-month program. As part of the program, each team works to expand the scope of their civic technology, develop an action plan, and deliver an appropriate solution. At the end of the process, each team will have produced a Web application that enables cities to connect with their constituents in ways that reduce administrative costs and engage them more effectively; supports the open government movement; and can be used by other cities. Throughout the process, Code for America mentors, trains, and coordinates the fellows and facilitates their relationships with their city management clients.
Web Site:
Visitors to the Code for America Web site can explore the organization's apps and projects, find out how to get involved, nominate their city, and make an in-kind or cash contribution. The site also features an organizational and CfA Labs blog, a Commentary section, and action tools and resources for supporters. In addition, site users can connect to the organization on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
Funding:
Code for America receives support from foundations, corporations, and individuals.
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