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Operation: Make a Difference

Core Value 1: Make a DifferenceOur first Core Value, Make a Difference, is one of my favorites. It means different things to different people, but in the end, it’s all about helping those around you.

In the past, we’ve volunteered at local nonprofits, sponsored events, and all in all been involved in our community.

This year, we’re trying something new—something bigger. We’re going to pick one nonprofit organization in Iowa and make something tech-related for them, for free. Why so vague? Because we don’t know what the project will be. A website, a mobile app, custom software? We just don’t know.

We don’t have a nonprofit or a project in mind. It’s up to you to tell us what project we should do. What does your nonprofit (or a nonprofit you care about) need? A new website? A streamlined donor management system? A volunteer mobile app? A one-page site like our holiday card? We’re completely open to any projects that will benefit the community.



Below are a few questions we foresee about the contest. Did we miss any? Ask us in the comments, on Facebook, on Twitter, or through our contact form.

How do I apply?
All applications will go through the Operation: Make a Difference Facebook app. Tell us about your nonprofit, your project, and how it’ll benefit the community. There’s an online application, or a downloadable PDF application that you can fill out electronically.

How will the winner be chosen?
We’ll use a 2-phase process to determine what project we’ll be completing. Once submissions are in (by January 26!), we’ll choose 2-5 entries that match the scope capacity and skill availability of our team. Then, the public will vote on which 1 of those chosen entries is the final winner.

What kinds of projects should we submit?
We’re really open to anything that will make serving your constituents easier. Whether that’s through a website, custom software, an app, or something else, we want you to tell us what you need.

What is the timeline?
Entry submission is open until January 26, 2014. Finalists will be announced on Facebook January 31. Public voting will take place January 31 to February 14. Winner will be announced on February 17, 2014. We’ll build the winner’s project on March 8.

I’d really love your help spreading the word to any nonprofits in your network. You never know which ones are in need of something like this! Use the share buttons on this post to share it on social media and through email.

Thanks for helping us give back to the community!

UPDATE: This contest is closed.