Contributing Computer Help To Non-Profits?

Chris Hedberg asks: "I have a friend who works for a non-profit organization whose purpose makes them a potential target for hacking. Unfortunately, although they're a significant group, they're run by a very small group on a shoestring budget and a lot of coffee. My question: Do groups exist who will contribute time or even just advice to nonprofits who cannot afford a formal I.T. team to secure their site? Seems likely that such must exist, but I'm not quite sure where to look. Sites for low-level novices looking to do it themselves would also be helpful."

Comments

I've done IT work for a charity...

[Kris_J]

I've done a couple of sessions of work for the SIDS foundation of Australia, specifically the Perth office. Their heavy use of volunteers makes them a soft target for viruses. In fact, I evicted several when I was there last. Ultimately they have to shell out for the anti-virus stuff (a not insubstantional cost for a small network). I was unable to find a mainstream anti-virus package that had lower pricing for non-profits (but if you're an educational user...).

I think such IT costs are simply part of the money that needs to be shelled out. No one's giving them cars, but they need them and have to find the money just the same. It's a shame, but if a non-profit can't afford the equipment, or find the skills it needs then it will have to consider shutting down.