End User (EU) Empowerment

I recently had the opportunity to work with the Project WeHope during a volunteering initiative organized by the VMware Globals West team. It was such a gratifying experience, to be performing work that we could see directly impacts the people that need it most. I was honored to have had the opportunity to learn more about their organization and to see how they seek to accomplish their mission daily.

The dedication and high standards of the Project WeHOPE was on full display when I volunteered, and I learned a lot about the challenges the organization faces, as they seek to execute on their mission statement of “helping people become healthy, employed and housed.” I walked away in amazement at what the Project WeHope team has been able to accomplish with the minimum resources they have access to, but I also observed many gaps and needs of the organization.

I think forging a strong bond with our community is essential for our overall success. These are the communities we work in, we live in, and what we leave behind for the next generation. I have been very fortunate in my life to have always had a strong supporting cast around me, to depend on times of need. With that guidance and support, I have been able to achieve a path to success that is not guaranteed to any of us. But I never forget that, without my support structure, I could just as easily be the one in need and on the outside looking in. Many of us are just a few decisions or choices away from being on the outside looking in. Therefore, I think it is important to continue to invest in our communities and continue to contribute to the support net needed to aid our communities in moving forward.

I must admit that I was a little shocked to learn of the challenges and needs this organization faces. With multiple families and individuals using this facility as their primary housing, there can often be contention amongst the needed resources. Coming from someone with a background in technology I zeroed in on the 2 or 3 old and outdated laptops in the facility and I inquired about their purpose. I was told that they were the only laptops available to those they serve in the shelter, and that those computers were often the only way children could get their homework done, or how individuals could look for work.

It was surprising to find this organization doing the most with what they have in terms of technology in a region known for being the global center of high tech, innovation and venture capital… Literally the richest region, appropriately titled Silicon Valley, of the richest country on earth. And what I observed was not a gap but rather an opportunity. An opportunity to use some of lessons and information I have had the privilege of being exposed to over the years and apply it to something greater than myself. An opportunity to make an impact! Even if we are not solving all the world’s problems, I do believe that as we stay engaged and continue to build with our community, it is easy to see the impacts we are able to make together. And as we contribute together, build together, and share in the ups and downs, we are able to offer that greater sense of community for someone in their time of need.

We are on a mission to help Project WeHOPE of East Palo Alto, CA by providing them with 10 Chromebook laptops for usage by the members of the community they serve. We have set a fundraising goal of $4000 to be used solely towards the purchase of these desktops which we hope will make it a little easier to help Project WeHOPE to continue to focus on their primary mission. I am looking forward to being there when we present Project WeHOPE with the results of a successful campaign.

Eddie Franklin
on behalf of The VMware Foundation 

ProjectWeHope