Technically Not Tech: NPower PA gives IT support to nonprofits in need

Updated: added grant details @ 4:35 p.m.6/16/09

It just might take a miracle to help lead at-risk Philadelphia teens away from the obstacles that have become something of a cliche in the urban education saga.

It will take a miracle or, perhaps, youth organizations that share information with each other through a sophisticated network of information sharing technologies.

That’s what NPower PA does.

The Center City organization fundraises for, organizes, implements and maintains IT for nonprofits that can benefit but don’t have the capital to do so on their own.

In January, this six-year-old group, one of 11 in the national NPower Network, completed perhaps its most ambitious project. After winning the grant in July 2007, NPower PA began integrating a collaborative data collection system in four communities — three in Philly and one in Chester — in the hopes of helping those young people better navigate the pitfalls they face.

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Technically Not Tech: Jack Broomall of 2Wheels2Alaska

Jack Broomall is nearly halfway in his journey to Alaska for charity. Photo courtesy of 2wheels2alaska.com

Just like many residents of the Philadelphia area, Jack Broomall made it a point to visit the Jersey Shore this week. Not because he wanted to work on his tan or to relax. On the contrary, Broomall waded into the Atlantic Ocean up to his ankles to kick off his 10,000-mile coast-to-coast motorcycle ride for charity.

“We took some pictures and tweeted to the world that the ride begins here and now,” Broomall said.

The retired auto engineer and Malvern native is taking the next few weeks and cycling to Wasilla (Yes, that Wasilla), Alaska on his 2009 BMW F650GS in the name of the Austin Hatcher Foundation. The charity was created by two doctors who are fellow bikers and friends of Broomall who lost a child to brain cancer when he was only nine weeks old. Read their story on the foundation’s Web site.

“I have the opportunity to do it, so I’m doing it and I can bundle it with a charity I care about a great deal,” he said.

With the help of some sponsors, including local bike retailer Revzilla, the trip has raised “several thousand dollars”, and is nearing Broomall’s initial goal of five.

After the jump learn how Revzilla is aiding the cause, find out the tech Broomall is using to stay connected and find out how you can help and donate to the cause.
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