Software that makes non-profit into cartographers?

Almost all GIS tools can be used to store, analyze and market statistics to your organization and funders. They are a great way to present information in an interesting and interactive fashion.
Maps can connect residents to their own communities by challenging individuals to collect information and think critically about their neighbors and their community's needs. They can show project goals/achievements for funders and they are much easier for the average person to understand; large datasets, dry statistics and jargon-filled reports do not appeal to the average person. Many GIS tools are also available for use in Spanish, French, German and Chinese.
There are many free tools available. Those which are not free often provide discounts for non-profits and NGOs. Layering datasets onto area maps gives your projects a professional look. You can use readily available archives to create your maps (www.policymap.org ,www.dataplace.org, www.arcgis.com ,www.geocommons.com , www.nonprofitgis.org). This allows small firms to create maps without hiring expensive contractors or maintenance staff- or just use resources as a jumping off point.

Monday, July 18, 2011

GIS and Neighboring

Neighboring is an asset- and empowerment- based approach to volunteering. It engages under-served and under-resourced communities to find innovative and sustainable solutions to local challenges.   

Local neighboring projects use the resources already available in the community to connect and empower residents, and to build a safe and supportive neighborhood.  Communities become more connected, safe, more inclusive places to live as resident leaders drive change efforts. 

GIS technology can be used in Neighboring projects:
  1.  To create community asset maps
  2.   Run needs assessments
  3.  Track the changes you are making in your neighborhood
  4.  Publicize projects and community resources for residents and service recipients
  5. Tell your organization’s story (maps don’t need to be info heavy they can be story maps instead)
  6.  Monitor local statistics such as crime data or average family income
  7.    Map the locations of service projects and info on how to get involved
  8. Or do anything else you can think of!

For more information about Neighboring visit: http://www.handsonnetwork.org/nationalprograms/neighboring
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