Kids@Copplestone
Introduction to Kids@Copplestone
Kids@Copplestone are a small charity that run after school activities for children in the Mid Devon village of Copplestone. They offer something for everyone – an exciting, changing programme of activities every day from 3.45pm to 4.45pm which include learning how to play chess or speak French, making puppets and masks, or playing football, netball or cricket and much more.
Mission - Increase opportunities for children to be active, learn new skills, have fun, in an area with few opportunities for children
Based – Copplestone, Crediton (Devon)
Number of Staff - 2 (part-time) and a number of volunteers
Key Projects and Outcomes (determined through initial meeting)
1. Networking (wireless) - To have a wireless network to allow use of laptop in different rooms, separating home and work use.
2. Databases - To have in place a system where contact lists can be maintained and key information extracted
3. Software - To have a finance software package that will ensure that the organisations financial records are managed effectively.
4. General – To have information on key ICT issues so the organisation can improve it’s efficiency.
Evolve Actions and Developments
1. Networking (wireless) - Evolve provided advice on wireless networking which would allow Rosemary to use a laptop, therefore ensuring that the groups work was kept separate from the home PC. Advice was given on what wireless router and wireless USB dongle to buy which was subsequently installed and setup by COSMIC’s Technology Manager Rob French. Rob French also provided information on security and sharing of printers.
2. Databases - By properly looking at the needs of the organisation it was suggested that outlook would be an effective means of setting up and managing a contact list. Evolve moved the group from outlook express to outlook, which allowed much more integration with other programs and provided ‘hands on’ advice on how best to use such a program.
3. Software – Evolve provided information on various accounting packages which took in consideration the needs of the organisation. Careful consideration was made of the fact that the organisation dealt with revenue earning activities as well as the delivery of funded projects.
4. General – Advice and support was given in computer housekeeping, backing up and health and safety. Tips on software such as word and outlook were also passed on as well as useful ICT publications and website links, to facilitate sustainability.
“Like many charities, Kids@Copplestone has limited resources so could not possibly afford to fund such support. It has been hugely valuable to have personal contact with an IT expert, through home visits, phone calls and emails, who can tailor his advice to my specific needs.”
Rosemary Stephenson - Kids@Copplestone Co-ordinator