A $300K grant will allow CoderDojo to reach 420 new students by expanding its programing in Europe
CoderDojo is a global movement of free, volunteer-led, community based programming clubs for young people. At a Dojo, young people, between 7 and 17, learn how to code, develop websites, apps, programs, games and explore technology in an informal and creative environment. In addition to learning to code attendees meet like minded people and are exposed to the possibilities of technology. STEM education, along with workforce development and technology innovation, is a primary focus area of Salesforce.org. Charlotte Finn, VP, Programs, Saleforce.org EMEA, says “Organizations like CoderDojo spark our interest because of the impact they have on the future development and lives of young people around the world. Add to this a tremendous energy and passion, like what is powering the global CoderDojo movement, and you’ve got something really special.”
In addition to over 6,500 volunteering hours Salesforce employees have donated across 16 countries, Salesforce.org also granted CoderDojo $300,000 to help scale the program. The grant will support 14 Dojos, each run by Salesforce “champions,” and will establish 70 Salesforce Dojo certified employees as mentors. The Salesforce-supported Dojos will reach 420 kids with a 50/50 ratio of boys and girls in each session.
“Every day we’re contacted by parents and kids who want to get involved in CoderDojo, they are desperate for their kids to have the opportunity to develop much needed technical skills. With Salesforce.org’s support, we aim to reach as many kids as possible. It’s our vision that every child in the world should have the opportunity to learn how to code and discover the magic behind the technology, which they interact with in their everyday lives” says CoderDojo CEO, Mary Maloney. “Being a charity and relying on the generosity of volunteers around the world, support from Salesforce.org will make a real difference. Our joint efforts will make it easier for volunteers to do the great work that they do and will enrich the experience enjoyed by kids at Dojos all over the world.”