EVENT

Resource Fair & Pop-up discussions

By Taproot Foundation

The Resource Fair is a special program for Bay Area nonprofits, pro bono providers, and corporations designed to introduce attendees to the wealth of pro bono resources in the Bay Area as well as to empower attendees to source or offer high quality pro bono. Within the Foundation Center, nonprofit organizations will be able to visit provider booths to learn more about their pro bono programs. Companies will have the opportunity to learn pro bono best practices from their counterparts. Providers will be able to promote their services and connect with nonprofits and other mission based organizations.

Simultaneously during the Resource Fair, Taproot will host two, hour-long pop-up discussions: lightly moderated, robust conversations between companies and nonprofits. Whether you are a pro bono novice or seasoned pro bono provider, these conversations will help you learn about pro bono from other corporate providers, give you insights to improve your existing pro bono opportunities, and make meaningful connections with local nonprofit partners. During our first topic, “How to Work with a Nonprofit from a Nonprofit Perspective” (1:30-2:30pm PST), the group will brainstorm what else is needed beyond typically defined professional skillsets. What do companies have to offer that may not be top of mind? What do nonprofits need that they may not have previously considered a “resource”? How can this knowledge help both sides pitch and secure diverse talent? How does this knowledge open the door for alternative forms of volunteerism? In our second discussion, “What does ‘Tech Talent’ Really Mean for the Nonprofit Sector?” (3:00-4:00pm PST) we’ll explore how tech assistance is often a misunderstood concept in the nonprofit sector, yet is one of the most pressing areas of need. Taproot and Dropbox will lead a conversation around common misunderstandings when we talk about “tech.” Deconstructing the concept of “tech” will help both nonprofit and corporate partners better respond to the social sector’s needs in this area.