Description
Since our inception we have tailored our programs and activities to the specific needs of the clients that we serve. Organizations receive comprehensive assessments of their computerization needs as well as assistance related to securing in-kind contributions, specific software solutions, and guidance in purchasing computer products and services. Training sessions generally have been conducted at the organization's facility so that assistance may be tailored to the needs of that particular organization. With the creation of Helpdesk's new Technology Training Center, we will bring together representatives of these organizations to share common concerns and work toward common goals in an educational and training setting. In addition, the Nonprofit Helpdesk has specific programs and activities that have been designed and developed as a result of our extensive experience working with nonprofits in the technology arena. These programs, activities, and services include: • Development and installation of customized computer programs, which we especially design to meet the needs of non-profit organizations. These include customized Web-sites, development of an Outcomes Tracking module for our Nonprofit MIS Program (to comply with local implementation of Federal legislation), development of a Windows version of our non-profit management software with expanded features, and development of new nonprofit software. • Staff training sessions in use of computer equipment, software applications and the Internet. • Assistance to resolve problems impeding the use of an organization's computer system. • Publication of a quarterly newsletter for nonprofits, Technical Assistance Update, with information and suggestions regarding information technology issues. • Workshops on topics such as How a Non-Profit Can Benefit from the Internet, Why Should a Non-Profit Worry about Ergonomics, Government Resources on the Internet, Data Security and Confidentiality for the Non-Profit, Computer Based Demographic Research and How to Use it for Planning and Fundraising, and other topics, which are followed by on-site training, assessments or project assistance for individual organizations. Our goals for this year include expanding our current services to 50 new organizations, completing development of our new technology training center, and adding training programs to the diverse array of services we currently offer our clients through workshops and on-site training and consultation. We plan to offer the following new programs: security/privacy concerns, disaster planning, use of Internet resources and the impact of legislation on technology needs of nonprofits. Our financial model for consultation to CBOs is either an hourly rate or flat fee, depending on the resources of the client. We assist our clients in securing grant funds for the provision of our services. Through contracts with several City agencies, we have been able to provide many services free-of-charge or for a reduced fee to CBOs that are under contract to New York City. Training sessions offered to multiple agencies are provided on a fee per person basis, with discounts for multiple attendees from a single organization. We continuously seek and have received foundation grant funds that allow us to provide partial scholarships for workshops. We have found that the payment of a nominal fee usually demonstrates a strong commitment on the part of the client.
