The Final State of the Union
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CodeNow pilot program students programming in Washington, DC, August 2011. (Photo by Duy Tran)
A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to meet Ryan Seashore of CodeNow and I was immediately impressed with the work he and the organization are doing. Ryan got me thinking about ways that we could engage non-profits around the country and the ways we could share their incredible stories. I am happy to announce a new weekly blog series highlighting non-profits dedicated to improving their communities. It felt appropriate to have CodeNow inaugurate the series.
CodeNow focuses on developing the next pioneers in technology by teaching underserved youth foundational skills in computer science and programming with the objective of narrowing the current digital divide. The organization teaches high school students the basics of computer programming and computer science in free, extra-curricular, off-campus trainings and boot camps. Each student who completes their program receives a netbook, mentoring and assistance finding internships.
CodeNow pilot program group in Washington, DC, August 2011. (Photo by Duy Tran)
Working with numerous partners, the organization successfully launched its pilot program in DC in August. They plan to hold two more weekend trainings and a four-day boot camp by the end of 2011. In 2012 CodeNow will expand to four cities.
As founder Ryan Seashore says, "coding is the new literacy, it gives youth the ability to create and innovate." This fantastic program gives high school students the tools to Win the Future.
To learn more about their program, go to CodeNow.org or follow them on twitter @CodeNowOrg.
We hope you enjoy reading about these amazing organizations as much as we at OPE enjoy getting to know them.
Jon Carson is the Director of the Office of Public Engagement.
