Teach a Kid to Code in 2016

When you start considering your New Year's resolutions for 2016, think about making a resolution to volunteer with an organization like CoderDojo.

What is CoderDojo? It's a network of over 700 independent computer programming clubs for kids around the world. They have a lot of differences in what they teach and how they teach it, but they all have three things in common. 

1. They're free to attend.
2. They're volunteer-powered.
3. They're filling a huge gap in STEM education.

HOW DO I FIND A CODERDOJO?

Visit the CoderDojo Locator and see what's near you, then visit that chapter's website or contact the organizer for volunteering info.

If you're in the Seattle Metro area, consider Seattle CoderDojo.

If there isn't one near you, consider starting one. 

DO I NEED TO BE A PROGRAMMER?

CoderDojos always need programmers (to help teach), but they also need program managers (to plan events and evaluate success), sales & marketing (to help find venues, sponsors, and partners), HR (to help organize and maintain their volunteer corps), and IT (to manage any donated equipment so it's ready for events).

A reasonably sized CoderDojo is a start-up with a goal of making zero profit and putting every penny back into the business to improve the customer experience. They need all the same skills powering them that a start-up requires.

HOW MUCH TIME DOES IT TAKE?

That depends on the CoderDojo chapter and what you're doing for it. Some people just volunteer a few hours a month to help out at one or two events. You can also find yourself giving 10 hours a week. It's up to you.

THANKS FOR READING THIS FAR

Enjoy your holidays and I hope that I or another CoderDojo organizer will have the pleasure of getting to know you in 2016.

Love, peace, happiness, and JavaScript to you and yours,

Greg