Covid Tech Support
1462. Marc Sloan
Marc Sloan, from Manchester, founded ‘Covid Tech Support’, a help desk designed to solve charities’ problems with technical solutions.
‘Covid Tech Support’ finds volunteer digital talent to help non-profits, charities and Covid projects get online and respond to the pandemic. Working with sister company ‘Code4Covid’, Marc has now built an army of 1,500 volunteers from the tech industry, and together they assist with over 20 new projects each week.
In a personal letter to Marc, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“During our battle against Coronavirus, many charities have needed technical assistance to find new ways of safely delivering their services.
“So I want to thank you for the fantastic way you have brought together hundreds of volunteers from across our world-leading tech industry to provide this support.
“Your endeavour is a brilliant example of the solidarity of our communities and the ingenuity which we are using technology to transform our lives.”
Marc said:
“I am honoured to receive the Points of Light award and accept it on behalf of all of the incredible volunteers providing digital support through ‘Covid Tech Support’ and for our internal team who work incredibly hard to keep things running.
“Because of COVID-19 our charity sector is more important than ever, but moving vital services online hasn’t been easy. Every day our digital volunteers are helping those who are helping others and I’m incredibly pleased to see their efforts recognised. We’ve now helped hundreds of organisations tackle tech problems and given meaningful professional experience to many who are out of work.
“If you have digital skills and some spare time, or would like help from a volunteer who has them, then please reach out to us online.”