DML2014: Ignite Talk - Jess Klein
0During times of crisis, such as the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, relief work can be really complicated -- even if people are really well intentioned. One of the hugest problems that I encountered with Rockaway Help (an org I started to provide aid in the aftermath of the hurricane) was a lack of a feedback loop between us (the grassroots organizers), the individuals in need and the volunteers. This is crucial for many reasons but to name a few : efficiency with task management, ability to acknowledge volunteer skillsets, the ability to match volunteers with appropriate tasks, and the ability to identify mentorship opportunities.
By connecting volunteers directly to members of affected population through Open Badges, we empower people who need help to engage in the relief effort, and maintain involvement before and after they have received aid. There are any reasons why this is valuable, including:
acknowledgement, verification of a task in a moment of crisis for the relief organization
acknowledgement that you have helped someone
the potential ability to self assign tasks based on skills
the ability to ask for mentorship based on expertise validated through badges
the ability to see your impact on a community in need
I am working to develop a platform independent and open-source SMS badging solution that can be built directly into other successful tools that already exist out in the world.