Social Services

Encouraging Social Connections in Your Connected Community

Nonprofit organizations, institutions and government agencies that provide social services are turning to technology to increase access and support for constituents. Because the goals of social agencies are so closely aligned with those of community technology strategies – namely enhancing opportunities and quality of life for individuals and communities – existing service organizations are logical partners in connected community projects. The constituents of these organizations are the individuals most in need of the benefits that connected community programs offer, such as access to job training resources and online services.

In addition to assisting their constituents in new ways, social service agencies, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations – collectively known as community-based organizations (CBOs) – that participate in connected community strategies are empowered to better achieve their missions by: 

• Utilizing shared infrastructure, differential pricing, new and refurbished equipment programs, and training programs to cut costs and increase service offerings
• Building on existing constituent bases to offer new programs that bridge the digital divide, such as training programs that introduce citizens to the basics of using computers and the Internet 
• Reaching out to constituents and donors in new ways, such as matching donor funding priorities with projects, utilizing social networking sites to share their message, and developing online advertising plans

Explore more solutions for your connected community.