A web app to create a community network of volunteers finally launches.
Written by: Linda Yan
Background
Reach4Help aims to facilitate support requests for identified people in need, such as the elderly and immunocompromised, and act as a bridge between them and reputable volunteers and volunteer organizations that can help, including government organizations and local Red Cross establishments. To ensure the safety of users, the project identifies and works with reputable volunteer organizations and networks that conduct appropriate background checks on their volunteers.
Additionally, Reach4Help has developed an interactive COVID-19 Mutual Aid Map to help people find and join mutual aid pandemic relief efforts near them.
The Launch
On Saturday, June 13th, Reach4Help globally launched their long-anticipated web app, accessible from any digital device, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. With a geographic focus on Portugal and Montreal, the app acts as a platform connecting people in need to volunteers who can help. As stated by Project Lead Shayan Chowdhury, “We want people worldwide to spread the app in their local areas to individuals who need help and want to volunteer to create a local network of help.” The project is also encouraging that individuals reach out to local volunteer organizations about the app to help them mobilize their efforts better.
The applet operates by making the location and contact information of the person in need available to authorities and to volunteers who can then provide help via an app notification on their end. Volunteers, who will be virtually onboarded beforehand, would then have the option to accept or decline the opportunity to provide assistance. After the task is completed, it will be marked so, and there would be a chance for the volunteer to receive a rating for their service. The applet has also been made available in several languages and features a direct messaging capability to increase efficacy and efficiency.
How You Can Help
Want to volunteer?
As Project Reach4Help grows, they are seeking more volunteers for their team to further improve their web app and their COVID-19 Mutual Aid Map.
See their website: https://reach4help.org/
To find out more about how you can join their efforts, visit their GitHub.
If you are interested in being a part of their volunteer team, please join the Reach4Help Slack and fill out their onboarding form.
If you have any questions or comments, please email i[email protected].
Want to connect?
Connect with Project Reach4Help on social media with Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter!
