Don and Ed: Developer/client matchmaking at Hack the Hood

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Small business applications now open

Applications due May 31

apply today

​What often catches people’s attention about Hack the Hood is how we’re providing real-world learning experiences for young people while providing a tangible benefit for local small business owners.  Small business clients often describe this as a “win-win” situation.  Not always grasped right away is that the benefit go beyond paid tech training for youth and a free websites for microentreprises.

The relationship between Youth Developer and the small business owneris magic happens.  We pair small business owners and youth who we think will relate to each other and provide the best working experience possible.  Youth get to learn from from entrepreneurs, and small business owners form a meaningful mentorship relationship with their youth developers. In many cases, the relationship does not always end once a small business website is live. 

One clear example from our Spring website build was the bond that formed between Ed Kressy, founder of Access Self-Defense and his web developer, Don Fountain.

“Don’s like a visionary...[He] was able to translate my vision, my message, who I wanted to be, and what I was trying to accomplish in a large sense and translate that into a communication style that is my website.  It turned out very very well, and I couldn't be happier,” said Ed during a recent interview.  “To see that vision that Don has applied to my business needs, that encouraged me to do whatever I can to help him along his path the same way so many others have generously helped me.”

Hack the Hood has always stood for creating opportunities for unresourced young people. Part of the magic of our 6-week long “Bootcamps” for Youth Developers is providing a real world client. Introducing young entrepreneurs to established creating opportunities and pathways for youth. For instance, Ed introduced Don to his executive mentor at Google and helped him set up an informational interview. Experiences like these are what you can grow from, and the right interview at the right time is a catalyst.

“One of the biggest things I learned from Ed was to be resourceful.  He was a really great resource for a lot of stuff and he’s helped me out tremendously,” said Don.  

​I'd say if you're a small business owner like me, absolutely consider partnering with Hack the Hood. Not only will you get an awesome website but you will also be working towards a socially responsible solution to some of our problems.  In my experience, customers really appreciate that."

​A solid website is a key part in realizing your business goals.
Apply online by May 31 for a free website, and a chance to partner with a Youth Developer

Apply today