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Author: tekFinder
Today we’re proud to announce that tekFinder has officially joined Pledge 1% - a global movement of over 18,000 members that inspires, educates, and empowers companies to be a force for good.
tekFinder’s commitment to making a positive impact started in 2023 with the launch of tekFoundation, our free tech volunteer recruitment service designed to bridge the gap between skilled tech professionals and charities in need.
Since its inception, tekFoundation has successfully assisted 25 different charities across Australia in finding volunteers for various tech initiatives (e.g. website design/development, SEO audits, Google Ads Campaigns, & software consulting). Many of these smaller organisations unfortunately face significant cost and logistical barriers in finding quality tech talent. They may also lack the tech sector knowledge or connections to support their search.
“Recognising these hurdles, I realised we could apply our experience and passion for recruitment towards making an impact in our own way. What started as supporting a few charities with free tech recruitment snowballed into the decision to fund the launch of an entirely new sister organisation, contributing well over 1% of tekFinder's profits to get it off the ground.” – Nick Shepherd, CEO of tekFinder and Co-Founder of tekFoundation.
We’ve since registered tekFoundation as its own not-for-profit company, applied with the ACNC, brought on co-founder Joni Fleischer to manage day-to-day operations, and appointed a board of directors with diverse knowledge and experience to support strategic direction and governance (Dr Robert Winter, Aidan Beanland, and Lucy Timms).
WHY PLEDGE 1%?
By becoming a Pledge 1% member, tekFinder not only formalises our commitment to social responsibility but also joins a global community of change-makers dedicated to giving back. This collaboration will allow us to amplify our efforts and share best practices with like-minded organisations, enhancing our ability to effect meaningful change.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Looking ahead, we see promising potential to expand our impact through additional tekFoundation initiatives. One such initiative is to launch mentorship programs that will not only upskill the charities we support but also assist newer entrants into the workforce. By providing these individuals with valuable skills and experience, we aim to help them secure better job opportunities and foster their professional growth.
We’re also looking to focus on those skilled in tech but facing barriers to entering the job market, such as migrants and asylum seekers. By equipping these individuals with the tools and connections they need, we hope to facilitate their successful transition into meaningful employment.
The tekFinder and tekFoundation teams are eager to embark on this new chapter and to be joining the Pledge 1% community. Our commitment to social impact is stronger than ever, join us on this journey as we strive to make a lasting difference!
