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Code for America

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description Code for America Overview

Code for America is a non-profit organization that works to improve government services through technology. They believe that the public deserves high-quality, accessible digital tools from their government. By training 'brigades' of volunteers and working directly with city governments, they help modernize everything from housing applications to unemployment benefits. It is an excellent example of 'civic tech' activism where coding and design are used as tools for social equity.

help Code for America FAQ

What exactly does Code for America do?

Code for America is a non-profit organization that partners with local governments to build open-source digital tools. They focus heavily on social safety net issues, such as streamlining the application process for food stamps (SNAP) and expunging criminal records.

What is a Code for America Brigade?

Brigades are local volunteer chapters consisting of coders, designers, and community organizers who work together to improve municipal services. These community-led groups meet regularly to build civic tech projects for their specific cities, following a standardized model established by the organization.

How is Code for America funded?

The organization relies heavily on philanthropic donations from major tech philanthropists, foundations, and corporate sponsorships. They also receive grant funding and revenue from government contracts when they partner directly with state agencies to overhaul digital infrastructure.

Can anyone join Code for America, or do you need to be a programmer?

You do not need to be a software engineer to contribute to Code for America. The organization actively relies on a diverse group of volunteers, including subject matter experts, project managers, and writers, to ensure the technology meets the actual needs of marginalized communities.

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