We understand that our love for technology is not only a part of us but it's also a gift.  We have the ability to comprehend, teach, and share our passion to others.  At NewOrleans Tech, not only do we want to highlight what's going on within the tech community, we also wanted to give back to the city that we love so much.

Community Outreach

NOLA Tech is creating a youth initiative program that will get young people more involved in technology.  One of our very first plans is to organize a youth BarCamp similar to this years BarCampNOLA.  A BarCamp is a two day event where people come to learn about emerging technologies and specific tech topics.   On the second day, the participants work on a group project for an organization or a cause they believe in.  Our hope is that the youth BarCamp will show the fun and engaging side of technology while hosting workshops that would interest young people.

New Orleans: Linux Against Poverty

Inspired by BarCamp NOLA herself, our very own Champ Superstar is spearheading the New Orleans version of Linux Against Poverty (LAPNOLA).  Linux Against Poverty started as an initiative by Lynn Bender of the Austin-American Stateman to help Burmese refugees of the catastrophic cyclone connect with news and information about their homeland by using donated computers.  Since it was not financially feasible to update and maintain a Windows computer, the group installed Linux distributes.  LAPNOLA's goal is get decommissioned computers, install Linux on them, and give them to organizations who can utilize them as computer labs.  Their upcoming plan is to host an InstallFest where donated computers are checked for hardware capabilities and then installed with flavors of Linux.

How You Can Help

Both programs are in need of volunteers and support.  For more information about the youth initiative, please contact Shercole King.  For more information about LAPNOLA, please visit their website or follow them on twitter.