NTA in May: Foster care, mental health, and coding for youth

This post has been republished via RSS; it originally appeared at: New blog articles in Microsoft Community Hub.

During May, I had the privilege to engage in transformative discussions and initiatives that highlight societal issues and showcase the power of community and technology in driving equity. From delving into gaps within the foster care system to partnering with organizations dedicated to mental health awareness and celebrating the fusion of sports and coding for youth empowerment, each event has been a testament to the collective efforts of our nonprofit community. 

National Foster Care Month: A Call for Transformation

 
For National Foster Care Month, I hosted an enlightening conversation with Shantay Armstrong of Kidsave EMBRACE Project and Mariah M. Jameson, a former foster youth. We explored the pressing gaps in the foster care system and discussed how Microsoft technology could propose transformative solutions, especially for underestimated communities. The EMBRACE Project stands out as a beacon of hope to enhance the foster system’s effectiveness. I encourage you to watch the replay of our Microsoft Nonprofits LinkedIn Live to how technology can be a driving force for equity. 

LinkedIn Live webinar image featuring speaker headshots for Darrell Booker, Shantay Armstrong, and Mariah Jameson.

Watch the replay: Innovation in Foster Care: How Technology is Driving Equity | LinkedIn

Silencing the Shame: Mental Health Awareness

Mental well-being is a cornerstone of a thriving community. I’m proud to share that one of our program’s nonprofit organizations, Silence the Shame, has been featured in Forbes for their unwavering commitment to mental health awareness. In collaboration with Microsoft, they’ve launched an app that provides a safe space for the Black community to discuss mental health challenges and access education and support. Discover the resources available and the significant strides being made in mental health by reading the Forbes feature: For Mental Health Awareness Month, Let’s Vow to Silence the Shame

(Left) Silence the Shame nonprofit leader, Shanti Das, and (right) a woman holding a mobile phone featuring the Microsoft-powered app, Silence the Shame.

  
Harlem Codetrotters: Coding Meets Game Design in Norfolk

The Harlem Codetrotters event in Norfolk, VA, was a celebration of game design and coding, specifically tailored for Black and Brown youth. This initiative, in partnership with River City Dreams, ingeniously integrated the Harlem Globetrotters’ legacy with a technology-infused curriculum. It was a joy to witness the community’s enthusiasm and participation. I invite you join the conversation on the nonprofit community to delve deeper into this innovative approach to education. Learn more at aka.ms/Codetrotters.

(Top left) A young girl posing with two Harlem Globetrotters players with a logo background, (Top right) A young boy learning how to spin a basketball on his finger next to two Harlem Globetrotters, (Bottom left) A young boy standing next to two Harlem Globetrotters players, (Bottom right) A young boy high-fiving two Harlem Globetrotters players.

The Nonprofit Tech Acceleration (NTA) program provides technology grants and technical consulting for nonprofits that support underestimated communities. Learn more by visiting aka.ms/NTA. Join the conversation in the comments and let us know how you are empowering your community!

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