WordPress.com’s parent company, Automattic, has partnered with Out in Tech, the world’s largest community of LGBTQ+ tech leaders and professionals, since 2017. We’re proud to have helped build over 250 websites for nonprofit organizations that support and advocate for LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.
Just in time for Pride Month 2025, a small group of Automatticians, including me, participated in the Out in Tech Digital Corps Hackathon, held in our office in New York City a few weeks ago.
During a Digital Corps Hackathon, groups with 8-10 volunteers spend the day building a full, multilingual website for the nonprofit to which they’re assigned. My group was assigned a youth advocacy group in West Africa.
A few days before the event, we were added to a shared Google Drive and a dedicated Slack channel, giving us a clear picture of what would be needed before we even arrived. We even connected with the organization’s executive director over video early on the day of the Hackathon.
My group consisted of UX designers, illustrators, marketers, digital strategists, copywriters, and expert site builders. Honestly, I felt like I was back in college working feverishly on a class assignment, and I loved every minute of it. The camaraderie, intense collaboration, and our shared sense of mission all contributed to a joyful experience, complete with inside jokes and new friendships.
At the end of the day, each group presented their finished website during the closing showcase, and then we celebrated with snacks and lively conversations. By the time I’d left later that evening, I’d already made a mental note to volunteer for the next Hackathon in September. It’s incredibly meaningful to use our skills to amplify the missions of LGBTQ+ organizations worldwide.
Interested in volunteering or learning more about Out in Tech? Head to their website to find out how you can get involved and attend an event near you.
