How would you like $10,000 worth of web services provided to your nonprofit for free?  If you think it’s a good idea, then read on.

I have, from time to time ventured to look at some of the websites of the non-profits that we work with here at Casino Party Suppliers.  It’s just my opinion, but some of them need a little polishing up (to put it nicely).  I know resources are though to come by but this opportunity is too good to pass on and it does not cost anything but a little time and effort.  Here it is…  I just went to a web development meeting last night to get some ideas for the Casino Party Suppliers website and met with some development people from the Nerdery. It was a great night and I learned a quite a bit of nerdy stuff.  But the real reason I am writing this article is for all of the charities and nonprofits in the Chicago area.  The Nerdery is sponsoring a community service event called The Nerdery Overnight Website Challenge on Aug 20-21.  The idea is that they will have teams of 8-10 web professionals.  Each team will be assigned a nonprofit group and for 24 hours straight, they will serve, pro bono.   The Nerdery has done these types of special events in the past, generating about $1.5 million worth of free services to 57 nonprofits so far.

If your organization has a weak website or no website for that matter, this event is a fantastic way to get that boost it needs.  To be considered, your nonprofit must make a case for itself, and its’ web needs in an online application. The judges will also look at posted testimonials. All applications must be completed by June 30, 2011.  You can get all of the details regarding this event at overnightwebsitechallenge.com/.  Many of the web development pros have also committed to a certain amount of support for the targeted website after the event as well.

Personally, if you have any website development skills, the event is also looking for volunteers.  Here are some of the specific areas of expertise being sought;  project management, strategy, UX \ IA, graphic design, copywriting, frontend development, backend development, and quality assurance.  So, if you any of these skills, think about helping out.