2009 Columbus Give Camp is in the books…

James Bender — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 18:50:54 GMT

… and it was a tremendous experience!

The goal of a Give Camp is to unite non-profits that need technical assistance, be it a new web site, help with a CRM or making changes to an existing line of business application with passionate geeks in the area who are willing to give a weekend to help these non-profits accomplish their goals.

This year, in Columbus, about 45 software professionals came together to help eight non-profits. The results were amazing. In about 48 hours, eight full scale applications were either completed, or nearly completed. Most starting from scratch. It was great to see the variety of technologies and talents in one place and one time. It was also great to see the results a small but committed team of developers could create in a short period of time. Truly amazing! I want to thank all the volunteers who came out to help. A weekend can be a big thing to give up, and the Give Camp organizers and non-profits are extremely thankful of your efforts.

I would also like to thank all the non-profits that participated. We had a great time getting together and learning from each other while helping you.

I would also like to thank our sponsors. Quick Solutions for providing us with a great workspace, and soda and coffee through the weekend. Discount ASP.NET for providing hosting for the non-profit applications. Tech Smith for providing funds and licenses of their amazing products. Telerik provided us with licenses for some of their products and swag. Microsoft for providing funds and swag. eRubycon for providing a free pass to eRubycon 2009. And The Sophic Group for sponsoring dinner on Saturday night. Please remember the support these sponsors provided.

I would like to single out two sponsors who went above and beyond for us: Potbelly and Pei Wei. One of the most difficult things about organizing an event that lasts all day is feeding people. When that even spans multiple days AND encourages participants to stay over-night, that task is even harder. Potbelly and Pei Wei made some of those meals a whole lot easier for us! Please remember them if you’re in the Polaris area at lunch or dinner time (Potbelly is here, Pei Wei is here)

See you all at Give Camp 2010!

Give Camp!

James Bender — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:11:59 GMT

What is a "Give Camp?" It's an event designed to allow developers, designers, DBAs, Architects and enthusiasts to donate their time and talent by helping to developer or update applications for charities.

Many of these organizations rely on custom applications and web sites to be able to provide services, but unlike large companies they lack the funds and resources to keep these applications up to date or build them at all.

On July 11-13 you have the opportunity to help out by participating in the Ann Arbor Give Camp and using your powers for good instead of evil!