THIS GIVING TUESDAY, HELP US TRANSFORM LIVES

This year has been filled with challenges for many Americans. The recent election results have left some feeling disheartened, but at Emergent Works, we see this moment as a call to action — a time to double down and show up stronger than ever.

BIPOC individuals and communities impacted by the criminal legal system rely on programs like ours to provide pathways to healing, sustainable employment, economic mobility, and community building. Our work is more critical than ever, and we are reigniting our passion because we know it changes lives.

Emergent Works remains steadfast in closing the digital literacy and racial wealth gaps, standing as a leader in the movement for systemic change. Thanks to your support, we’ve witnessed incredible transformations in the lives of those we serve. However, the journey isn’t over — there’s still so much more to do.

Your contributions allow us to show up for our community meaningfully, providing essential resources like food, transportation, learning stipends, and laptops. Together, we can go beyond helping individuals survive; we can create opportunities for them to truly thrive.

Join us this Giving Tuesday and stand with us in building a brighter future. Every dollar makes a difference. Click the link below to give today!

­Donate Now!

EMPOWERING CHANGE: 2024 IMPACT

In 2024, your incredible support allowed us to turn vision into reality, making a transformative impact on system-impacted youth and adults. Together, we’ve achieved milestones that are changing lives and building brighter futures:

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• Transforming Lives: We served 73 mentees directly impacted by the criminal legal system, helping them build skills, confidence, and hope.
• Community of Support: 30 industry professionals stepped up to mentor our TECK mentees, offering invaluable guidance and real-world insights.
• Creating Pathways to Success: An incredible 65% of work-eligible graduates are now employed, stepping into opportunities made possible by their hard work and your belief in them.
• Equipping for the Future: 100% of graduates completed work readiness training, ensuring they’re prepared to navigate the professional world with confidence.
• Investing in Alumni: We contract-hired four alumni from our T.RAP and TECK programs, empowering them to lead and inspire others.

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These numbers tell a story of resilience, dedication, and the power of community. Your contributions make this impact possible, fueling the transformation of challenges into achievements and dreams into reality.

Let’s continue to create opportunities, uplift communities, and build a future filled with possibility. Thank you for believing in our mission and the incredible people we serve.

­Support Today­

DONATE TODAY AND HELP US CHANGE LIVES!

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424 W. 54th Street
10019, New York

A FEW WORDS FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ARMY ARMSTEAD:

‘I recently had the great honor of attending ALC53 in DC, where I got to network, learn, and share about the transformative actions taking place at Emergent Works — creating new opportunities for system-impacted communities, and ensuring that one mistake doesn’t define anyone’s life. One of the highlights of my time there was our collaboration with Design The We on the powerful “Undesign the Redline” exhibit. This interactive exhibit, workshop series, and curriculum uncovers the harmful, systemic structures that American society is built on — tracing the roots of the inequality we fight today from the 1938 Redlining maps to now.

But this collaboration isn’t just about reflecting on the past. “Undesign the Redline” is a call to action, inviting us to come together with tangible steps to dismantle these harmful systems. The exhibit travels nationwide, igniting conversations, spurring change, and offering actions that build stronger “WE”. We believe this exhibit needs to be in every community, town, and city across the country — through our local communities, we can create real transformation.

The history of oppression is deep-seeded and built intentionally — but so is the passion behind the work being done to restore voice and power to those most impacted. Read more about the incredible work of Design the We here.

Let’s continue building this movement together to ensure that no one’s worst day defines the rest of their life.’

DATADOG VISIT

Building partnerships in our local community! We had an incredible day at DataDog! EW met with this amazing organization of supporters this month Tay and her team sat down with us to discuss the needs of our community and to collaborate on an intensive bootcamp for Python. This workshop will be designed to supply mentees with essential coding skill, and prepare them for more advanced coding training!

It was a remarkable pleasure to meet with Tay and her team and witness the incredible view and location at DataDog! We can’t wait to build on this new partnership and better serve our mentees!

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T.RAP: CREATING, RECORDING, and GROWING!

T.RAP is now at 17 enrolled mentees, our biggest cohort in EW history! Our mentees come from Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan and the Bronx, and they have all made awesome progress on their artistic journey!

During September, mentees focused on persuasive writing, hooks, melody, and creating meaning in their lyrics. Through their weekly recordings, we have covered digital literacy topics such as email scheduling, technical recording tools, and understanding one’s digital footprint. It is so exciting to watch these students grow artistically and professionally all at once!

For our professional development training, mentees have participated in OSHA training and resume workshops, gearing up to jump headfirst into employment opportunities!

We also had the great pleasure of attending Pure Legacee and NYC Votes event! Mentees were given essential information on pre-registration, voter suppression and why their voice matters, now more than ever. We are all excited to participate in the election process and have our voices heard both in our community and for our country!

As we wind down this amazing T.RAP cohort, join us for our T.RAP graduation concert in December! See the culmination of these artists’ hard work in this one-night-only concert! Reserve your ticket here!

TECK: VISUAL DESIGN AND BRANDING

Our latest TECK cohort has taken off! In September, we began our new TECK cohort, with 6 EW alumni joining us as we deep dive into UX/UI training.

Our incredible mentees have been focusing on creating in Figma and getting more acquainted with the platform by designing trading cards and executing group exercises focused on creating user friend interfaces. We have studied visual design tenants as well as fundamentals on how to identify and apply them. They also have explored the concept of branding as well in their instructor classes.

This month our mentees had their first of 3 workshops on branding, marketing and roadmap for start-ups with Lucinda Cross.

We look forward to continuously journeying in design this cohort and celebrating our mentees graduation and projects on November 22nd at 6pm est. Reserve your tickets here!

INSTRUCTOR SPOTLIGHT: LUCINDA CROSS

During this cohort of TECK, we are delighted to have Lucinda teach our mentees branding and marketing essentials as well as how to plan for your start up during a 3-session workshop series.

Lucinda Cross is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and motivational powerhouse known for her authentic and no-nonsense approach. As a Certified Business Coach and TV Lifestyle Expert, she leads two companies, Activate Worldwide LLC. and Activate Your Life.org, focused on personal and professional development. Lucinda has worked with Fortune 500 companies like NIKE, Prudential, and DELTA, and collaborates with the Department of Justice on women’s empowerment initiatives. She founded WE Nation, a community service network supporting at-risk youth and women, which has grown to over 100k members.

UPCOMING EVENTS!

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PERIOD LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

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October 23, 6–7:30PM

An empowering workshop featuring educator Chantla Israil, this workshop is tailored for women 25 and older, focusing on the changing nature of the menstrual cycle. Come together as we discuss key topics as a community, such as perimenopause, menopause, and the hormonal shifts that affect your body as you age.

­RSVP

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TECK GRADUATION

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November 22, 6–7:30PM

Join us for an inspiring evening as we celebrate the creativity and hard work of our TECK Digital Design mentees! Explore the incredible designs our mentees have built for their websites over the past 12 weeks and witness firsthand their creativity and business ideas!

­RSVP

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T.RAP GRADUATION & CONCERT

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December 7, 12–3PM

A one-day-only concert! Join us for an unforgettable event as we celebrate the creativity and growth of our T.RAP mentees! At this special graduation concert, you’ll experience live performances of the songs they’ve crafted and get an inside look at the websites they’ve built to showcase their music. Celebrate with us the incredible work and bright futures of these mentees!

­RSVP

At Emergent Works, our mission is clear: we aim to expand our reach and deepen our engagement without reducing the people we serve to mere numbers. Many of our participants have already been dehumanized by the prison system, identified only by a number. We aim to build meaningful, transformational relationships that empower individuals and foster real change.

While larger state organizations often receive substantial funding, their impact tends to be less direct compared to the deep, community-centric work done by grassroots organizations. Smaller organizations like ours take the time to invest in the communities we serve, resulting in tangible, life-changing outcomes, but usually need more resources to achieve sustainable growth.

Consider the story of Terrance, a participant who graduated from our program and secured a junior developer position at a technology company, earning over $70,000 a year. This opportunity not only transformed his life but also inspired those around him. Another alumnus, Joseph, pursued his passion for artistry and now serves as our T.R.A.P. instructor, teaching therapeutic writing and artist development while inspiring N.Y.C. youth daily.

Emergent Works has graduated 222 participants through our collective programs, achieving a remarkably low recidivism rate of just 4 percent. Over 71 percent of our graduates have secured employment, with 57 percent working in digital, administrative, and leadership roles. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent lives changed, families uplifted, and communities strengthened. The work of grassroots organizations is about more than just statistics; it’s about the lives we touch and the futures we help shape. Sustainable funding is crucial for us to continue making this impact. We need to reach more people without sacrificing the deep, transformational relationships that make our work effective.

Funders should recognize the unique value of grassroots organizations and continue their support. By investing in grassroots efforts, you are not just funding programs; you are fueling the dreams and potential of individuals who have the power to change their communities and the world.

Let’s continue supporting and uplifting grassroots organizations making a real difference.

Personally, my struggles with anxiety and depression stem from childhood trauma. Now, as a father, I’m determined to break the generational curses that once made me question my worth and purpose. As a social entrepreneur and community leader, I often feel pressured to “show up” in ways that best represent my community, pushing “me” to the side. However, I’ve learned that showing up authentically as myself means addressing the traumas and triggers that once held me back.

I strive to present myself honestly because my ongoing healing journey can resonate with many men, regardless of race or background. I’ve prioritized the hard work of self-reflection, asking tough questions, and confronting my truths. Healing is not a destination but a journey — one that is non-linear and lifelong. Yet, committing to this path makes me a better partner, father, and leader.

But I’m learning that life is about balance, and I’m still navigating mine as I support others. I seek time to focus on my wellness, rediscover old hobbies, and explore new ones. Falling in love with working out has been a revelation, preparing me to engage in sports and activities with my son, all while my music remains a therapeutic tool.

As men, practicing emotional intelligence is vital but requires a safe environment. We need assurance that our fears won’t be weaponized and that we are loved for who we are, not just for what we bring to the table. Unconditional love fosters a sense of safety. Despite the challenges, I am committed to my healing practices to find balance. It’s a long journey, but I am focused on my purpose, my family, and savoring this experience called life. There is abundant room for growth and healing, and I am committed to the process.

I wrote this for the men out there striving to find their balance while fulfilling the roles everyone expects of them. Take care of yourself because if you don’t, who will care for your loved ones? If you’ve faced challenges with your mental health, I’ve shared some resources below. Stay encouraged because every setback is a setup for a comeback!

Stay strong, and remember: your journey matters.

Three ways to deal with mental health

Taking care of mental health is crucial for everyone, but Black men and Black fathers face unique societal pressures and challenges that can make it especially difficult to seek help. Here are three effective ways Black men can address their mental health, along with tools and resources to support their journey:

1. Open Up and Talk About It

Black men often feel societal pressure to appear strong and self-reliant, which can make discussing mental health difficult. However, opening up to trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional can provide much-needed support and relief.

• Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a safe space to share experiences and receive encouragement from others facing similar challenges. The Black Mental Health Alliance offers resources and support groups tailored to the Black community.
• Therapy: Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be incredibly beneficial. Platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace offer convenient online therapy options, making it easier to access help from the comfort of home. Therapy for Black Men is a valuable resource to find culturally competent therapists.

2. Engage in Regular Physical Activity

Exercise is a powerful tool for improving mental health. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can boost mood and reduce stress. Finding an enjoyable activity can make it easier to stay consistent.

• Exercise Apps: Apps like Nike Training Club and Fitbod offer personalized workout plans that can be done at home or the gym.
• Outdoor Activities: Connecting with nature through outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or running can provide additional mental health benefits. Websites like AllTrails can help find local trails and outdoor spots.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Stress-Reduction Techniques

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help manage stress and anxiety, improve focus, and promote well-being.

• Meditation Apps: Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditations, breathing exercises, and sleep aids to help incorporate mindfulness into daily routines.
• Journaling: Writing down thoughts and feelings can provide clarity and a sense of release. Tools like the Day One journaling app can help create a regular practice of reflection and self-awareness.

Conclusion

Addressing mental health requires courage and commitment, but the benefits are profound. By talking openly about mental health, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing mindfulness, Black men and fathers can build resilience and improve their well-being. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and numerous resources are available to support this journey toward better mental health.

Resources for black men: Here are some free mental health outlets and resources specifically for Black men and Black fathers:

1. Therapy for Black Men

Therapy for Black Men is a dedicated platform providing a directory of therapists who offer free or low-cost services. The site also offers resources and articles tailored to the mental health needs of Black men.

2. Black Men Heal

Black Men Heal offers free mental health services to Black men, including eight free therapy sessions with a culturally competent therapist. They also provide support groups and mental health resources.

3. The Confess Project

The Confess Project is a mental health awareness movement focusing on Black men and boys. They provide free resources, including therapy sessions and community support, to help address mental health challenges.

Why did I join the Emergent Works Digital Literacy Cohort 2024? I’d been wanting to transition from social services to tech, but let’s be real, my tech skills were about as advanced as a 90’s flip phone. Sure, I could navigate Microsoft 365 and some social services software; but when things got too tech-y, I just closed the window. The fear of breaking something was real!😂

I discovered Emergent Works at the 2022 MANA WAHINE Conference here on O’ahu. Emergent Works is a non profit based in New York. EW’s mission is to create a world where tech education and skills-based training are free and available to all communities impacted by mass incarceration. They focus on creating pathways into high-paying tech careers for formerly incarcerated people. They came all the way to Hawai’i to share their mission and even held classes with our incarcerated youth at HYCF (Hawai’i Youth Correctional Facility) — now that’s standing on business. Because if I’m being real, our country barely gives a damn about our rehabilitation and lack of opportunities. .

This really hit home for me because I’m a returning citizen, and I know firsthand just how overlooked and little that we have access to. EW offers unique opportunities for those like me — ones that we wouldn’t find within the system here. The State of Hawai’i, Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation only just started offering higher education classes inside the prisons, yet they’ve been willing to exploit our labor for weed whacking on the highways(but I digress).

Joining the EW cohort was a pleasant surprise. I came into it expecting to refresh my digital literacy skills and learn some new ones. What I didn’t expect was to create uplifting, encouraging, and inspiring friendships with the amazing people in the cohort. I was looking forward to every single session.

So, not only did I hone my digital skills, but I also learned quite a few new ones. EW set me up with a personal mentor (someone currently working in tech) who helped guide me towards my goals. #SnehaN, my mentor, helped me realize that I didn’t need to feel discouraged because of my lack of formal education and experience. She pointed out just how many of my current skills were transferable to the role I wanted as a Project Manager. She helped me build the scope of my graduation project and get me comfortable using the systems needed in Project Management.

Our instructor, #MonicaG, kept us hyped about ourselves — especially when we would try to downplay our achievements. The Exec Director, #Army, met with everyone of us personally to see how our journey was going. The EW team — especially #TineR, #YusufB and #ArielH — were amazing. Ariel even went out of her way to help with a personal project I was working on for my non-profit. They genuinely care and think of everything. When I expressed concerns about my past affecting my job search, they didn’t give me the usual fluff. They provided actionable steps so I could combat the negative and control my own narrative. EW really built a whole community.

Throughout this course, I received so much support and encouragement. With it, I created two portfolios for my graduation project. One of which was a website based on an idea for transitional housing for youth in Hawai’i. The skills I learned also helped me propose implementing a content task management system at my organization to track client progress and boost effectiveness. I even got the courage to write and publish this blog — my very first one.

I’m so grateful for this experience. I’ve already signed up for the next cohort, Digital Development. Basically, Emergent Works… WORKS!🌺

Last autumn marked a pivotal moment in my journey as a changemaker when I sat across from John Legend, the iconic musician and visionary behind Free America. It was an electrifying experience, surrounded by fellow members of the 2023 cohort of Unlocked Futures, an initiative designed to empower leaders driving change in communities impacted by incarceration.

The individuals comprising the Unlocked Futures cohort are not just leaders; they are beacons of resilience and hope, each with a unique story to tell. Our gathering epitomized the power of collective action and the belief in the potential of every individual to effect positive change. Within the safe and supportive space of the Unlocked Futures Cohort, we had the rare opportunity to engage directly with John Legend, delving into our work and its impact on our respective communities. It was a moment of validation, affirming the significance of our collaborative efforts in driving meaningful transformation.

My experience within the cohort has been nothing short of life-altering. As a leader highlighting the genius of lived experience, I needed to connect with peers who shared similar experiences, fostering an environment of growth, learning, and mutual support. They also offered a holistic approach to leadership development, addressing professional competencies and personal well-being.

One of my primary objectives was to develop a compelling narrative around our work at Emergent Works, highlighting the intersection of technical education and music programs in our community. Through workshops and sessions grounded in trauma-informed practice, I gained invaluable insights into storytelling and impact assessment, enabling me to communicate our mission clearly and passionately.

Emergent Works (EW), Army Armstead: Unlocked Futures 2024

From navigating organizational challenges to fostering board effectiveness and team management, the program equipped us with the skills to lead confidently and authentically. What truly set this experience apart was the emphasis on holistic healing and community building. Amidst the rigors of leadership, the cohort provided a nurturing environment where I could recharge, reflect, and connect with like-minded peers. Whether meditating on the beach or sharing meals, these moments of camaraderie were essential for sustaining my passion and resilience.

Despite initial hesitations, including the birth of my son shortly before our first convening, the support and understanding of the cohort and the New Profit team made it possible for me to engage in the experience fully. It was a testament to the genuine care and commitment of everyone involved, from the facilitators to my fellow cohort members.

For me, joining the Unlocked Futures cohort was about confronting imposter syndrome and embracing my worth as a leader. Through learning, growing, and connecting with a community of like-minded individuals, I have gained the confidence to continue driving change in my community and beyond. As I look to the future, I am grateful to John Legend and the New Profit and Free America teams for their unwavering support and investment in my leadership journey. We are poised to continue changing the world, one community at a time.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly encourage any system-impacted leader considering joining a cohort like Unlocked Futures to take that leap of faith. Remember, imposter syndrome is merely an imposter, and you are more than capable of effecting profound change in the world. Thank you to everyone who has supported and believed in me on this remarkable journey.

Creating Pathways to Success

At Emergent Works, we believe in the power of second chances. We understand that the journey toward reintegration into society can be fraught with challenges, from stigma to limited access to opportunities. We’re dedicated to providing a pathway for system-impacted individuals to gain essential digital literacy skills and prepare for meaningful employment.

Our innovative training programs equip participants with the technical expertise and professional development tools they need to succeed in today’s dynamic workforce. From coding to project management, we offer comprehensive training that builds essential skills and instills confidence and resilience.

Advocating for Fair Chance Hiring

But our work doesn’t stop at training. We’re also passionate advocates for fair chance hiring — a movement recognizing the potential and value of individuals with criminal records. By partnering with companies committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we’re opening doors to employment opportunities that may have once seemed out of reach.

Fair chance hiring isn’t just about corporate social responsibility — it’s about tapping into untapped talent pools, fostering innovation, and building more robust, inclusive communities. When companies prioritize fair chance hiring, they benefit from diverse perspectives and increased productivity, which contribute to breaking down barriers and creating a more equitable society.

Join Us in Making a Difference

We invite you to join us in our mission to empower lives and build futures. Whether you’re an individual looking to support our work, a company interested in partnering for fair chance hiring initiatives, or simply someone who believes in the power of second chances, there’s a role for you to play.

Together, we can challenge stereotypes, dismantle systemic barriers, and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can make a difference — one life, one job, one opportunity at a time.

Get Involved

• Support Our Work: Consider making a donation or volunteering your time to support Emergent Works’ programs and initiatives.
• Partner with Us: If you’re a company interested in fair chance hiring, reach out to explore partnership opportunities and learn how you can integrate our graduates into your workforce.
• Spread the Word: Share our story and advocate for fair chance hiring in your community and beyond. Together, we can amplify our impact and inspire change.

At Emergent Works, we believe in the power of second chances. Join us in creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We can build a more inclusive, equitable, and empowered society for all.

With Love,

Army Armstead

If you believe in this dream, too, we would love to work with you. To donate, visit emergentworks.org/donate.

Our society has been deeply wounded by mass incarceration. The way we will heal is by centering the skills, experiences, and work of those that most intimately know its impacts. That’s why at Emergent Works, all our engineering teams are made up of at least 50% justice-involved software engineers.

Emergent Works (previously Code Cooperative) is a nonprofit software company that trains and employs formerly incarcerated people. Our learning model is unique. We pair formerly incarcerated apprentices with senior software engineers on client projects so that our apprentices learn through paid, real work experience. Our senior software engineers get to do work that they believe in and our clients get exceptional software while knowing they are contributing to a cause that they care about.

After the killing of George Floyd, we felt compelled to use our skills to respond to this critical moment. We asked our engineering team to build a vision for the change that they wanted to see in the world. And they did.

Not911 is a mobile app for resolving community-level issues without police involvement. Not911 allows users to choose from a variety of city, state, federal, and nonprofit agencies to address issues ranging from domestic violence to homelessness, without police intervention.

The team that built Not911 was led by Ross Patton, a 33-year-old software engineer with a graphic design background, and Tomás, 38, who grew up on the Lower East Side of Manhattan and spent some time away at the Otisville Correctional Facility before finding his way to Justice Through Code, a ten-week coding boot camp at Columbia University.

For Tomás, building Not911 was deeply personal. “Being able to circumvent the police and still get your needs met is a beautiful thing. The first thing that comes to mind is a person on parole. If they were to fall off a bike and need assistance and call an ambulance, the police would come and they could have their parole violated for police contact.”

Ross joined Emergent Works as a senior software engineer earlier this year. “Part of the reason I quit my job was because I didn’t think I was doing any good. I’ve liked my jobs, I’ve liked my teams, I’ve even liked my bosses, but at the end of the day I was always cognizant of the fact that I wasn’t making the world a better place.”

It has been incredibly meaningful for Ross to mentor Tomás. “I haven’t been in jail; I don’t know what that experience is like. But one thing I do relate to is this feeling that the tech industry is really hard to break into, and that the industry is for a certain type of person. There’s value in taking people that have been told that they can’t do this or it’s not for them and actually showing them that anyone can do this. This industry wants you to believe that it’s only for super-geniuses, but it’s really for anybody that wants to do it.”

We fund our work on projects like Not911 with revenue earned through working with clients, like the Brooklyn-based startup Smallhold. Our team at Smallhold was led by Johann Diedrick, a 33-year-old Brooklyn-based software engineer and sound artist.

For Johann, who spent several years as a software engineer for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, working on the Emergent Works team has been an experience like no other. “We’re not just focused on criminal justice reform, we’re also trying to center Black engineers in the process. In my career, with very few exceptions, I have been the only Black engineer in the room. Here, my voice is heard, my opinion matters in a way that it hadn’t previously.”

Antwan, who apprenticed with Johann on Smallhold, is 52. Originally from Baltimore, Antwan spent four years in the Marine Corps and was studying Electrical Engineering when the police came knocking at his door in 2004. He had served time previously for dealing drugs but was now facing 35 years to life in prison for three armed robberies he hadn’t committed. “I took the plea, but now I have violent felonies on my record. Violent crime is looked at very differently.”

Antwan hasn’t been able to find stable employment since he came home in 2009. He fell in love with code earlier this year and was also connected to Emergent Works through the Justice Through Code program. “I’ve always had a technical mind. That’s what’s driving me, that memory of who I was before incarceration.”

We know that the circumstances that led someone to end up in prison do not define who they are and what they can do. And our clients agree. “Emergent Works’ mission-driven, mentorship-based work-model delivered a rare and ideal combination of passion, expertise, and organization, typically a ‘pick two’ problem. The design, documentation, and implementation of our project were professional, on-schedule, and specifically tailored to our needs.” — Ed Bear, Smallhold.

The perspectives, experiences, and voices of formerly incarcerated people are needed in the tech industry. We are all responsible for healing the wounds of mass incarceration. At Emergent Works, we are building a new kind of software company. One that is rooted in these beliefs.

If you believe in this dream too, we would love to work with you. Visit emergentworks.org for more information and email agency@emergentworks.org if you’d like to hire us.

Not911 was built by Tomás, Ross Patton, Johann Diedrick, Ashley Newcomer, Army Armstead, Lauren Wilkinson, Christina Entcheva, and Jaclyn Perrone. It is currently available for download on Android devices and as a web app at http://not911.nyc.

(The Apple App Store has not yet approved the app. If you have an iPhone, you can use the web app at http://not911.nyc)

This piece was written by Trevor Scotland and edited by Alex Qin. Photos by Sara Laufer.

Our goal for our last day was to finalize our vision for the product

Over the past 24 hours, we ran two quick tests to get feedback on our product idea. The first was a series of interviews that we conducted with users in our target demographic in which we showed them our prototype and listened to their reactions and questions.

The second test we ran was a quick poll on the Code Cooperative’s twitter account to hear from future donors about their preferences around donating money to pay for the internet bills of New Yorkers in need.

After discussing the results of these tests, we pulled out some key learnings (see below). One was that phone bills were much more expensive than we had anticipated (up to $450 / month for one user!). Another one that surprised many of our team members was the number of people that indicated interest in donating to this cause.

We used these learnings to brainstorm and vote on new feature ideas and changes to our prototype

Finally, we incorporated these ideas into our final design, a webpage that more clearly defined the problem our users face, the value we provide them, and answers to the questions that users had in our interviews. Check out our iterations from the week below.

We couldn’t be more proud of the team for doing research, getting feedback, and iterating on our solution several times within a single week. Talk about fast feedback!

Day 8 and 9 of our Digital Divide design sprint was spent honing in on our prototype and getting ready to test it with users.

1. Defining our prototype

We spent the first part of Day 8 further defining the prototype for the solution we have chosen: crowdfunding people’s telephone and Wi-Fi bills.

We discussed important questions like:

1. Who are our users?
2. What exactly does this service pay for?
3. How do we fund these payments?

Our answers:

1. We want our service to target residents of the Bronx and Harlem, who are disproportionately impacted by the digital divide.
2. We want our service to help pay our users’ phone AND Wi-Fi bills
3. We had many ideas for how to collect donations: a social media usage tax, credit card roundup, regular donations, or a form of insurance funded by our users.

2. Our brand

We then spent some time defining our brand. Our designer Michael Taylor led us through an On/Off exercise, where we all shared what colors, fonts, and graphics we felt were on brand or off, and why.

What mattered most here was not the colors, fonts, and graphics we chose, but rather why we chose them. These words (accessible, hopeful, youthful, unique, familiar, helpful) are what we want to convey with our brand. As important as what was on brand, was what was off. We found that our brand is not tryhard, boring, dark, royalty, opinionated, cartoonish.

This is what our brand looks and feels like.

3. Designing a prototype

We learned about the Inverted Triangle and how it can be used to present information to our users. We learned that the most important information should be most visible on the page and the details should be less visible. Using this outline, we broke our prototype into the following sections: Headline, Subhead, Call-to-action, and Additional Info.

We drafted some language for each section and arranged it into a landing page. We then made multiple versions of the same page using our brand guidelines to slowly work towards a version we felt good about sharing with the world. This is called Iterative Design.

4. Testing our prototype

Now that we have a prototype, we need to learn from our users which direction to take and validate/invalidate our core hypotheses, which are:

1. People don’t understand the digital divide and the lack of internet access in NY
2. People want to donate money in some way to support folks who can’t afford internet

We decided to find this out by doing the following:

• Create a poll to put out on social media with some of these options
• Talk to community members about this idea and our prototype

We made the following poll to find out how our potential donors would prefer to donate to our fund (if at all):

500,000 households in NYC don’t have any internet access.

We’re organizing a fund to help pay people’s internet bills.

Would you prefer to donate:
1. a sum of your choosing
2. your credit card purchase roundups
3. based on your own internet usage
4. to another cause

Then we created 3 different landing pages to find out what type of service our users would prefer between the following options: insurance that you pay $2 monthly for, a raffle system, or an application process.

And we wrote an interview guide to gather the right information from our users. We will ask questions like:

What are your reactions to what you see here?
Which one are you interested in joining?

Next step, getting results from our poll and testing our prototype with users! Tomorrow is the last day of our design sprint, and we can’t wait to see the results of our research.