How can open source technology, design, and data accelerate social change and community improvement efforts? From Open 311′s city tracking system and the Grassroots Mapping of environmental impacts, to pedal powered electricity and LED banners at protests; design and technology have proven to be robust change agents.
CivicLab is entering the field with an initiative called “Hacks for Activists” (H4A). H4A seeks to build tools that solve common problems plaguing community organizers. We’re looking for activists, designers, coders, open hardware enthusiasts, and anyone with the slightest interest in technology for social change.
Our first meeting is being generously hosted by Pumping Station: One on Thursday Oct 18th, 7:00PM – 9:00PM. Snacks, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages provided! Here’s a few ideas we’re currently exploring but new projects are most welcome:
Sign Me Up: An SMS/web based tool to replace paper sign-up sheets at community organizing meetings. Crowd Speaker: An application that would leverage participants’ cell phones as a collective public announcement system at rallies.
For more information and notifications about future meetings, you can contact bsugar [at] skilfullycurled.org, or visit our web site at http://www.civiclab.us.
Please sign up on our Eventbrite so we can get an idea of how many to expect: http://hacksforactivists.eventbrite.com
Attendees who have never been to our space, please sign and bring PS:One’s Liability Release with you. We’ll also have copies available at the site on the night of the meeting.