Harnessing Data to Amplify Asian American Voices

In an era where data is the cornerstone of decision-making, organizations like Kundiman, which is committed to fostering Asian American literature, frequently encounter the challenge of managing fragmented information systems. To address these challenges, JPMorganChase's Force for Good program steps in—a venture under the Tech for Social Good initiative that demonstrates the power of corporate know-how in aiding non-profit entities to surmount technological barriers and enhance their reach.

Since its inception in 2004, Kundiman has been a haven for Asian American authors, providing them with retreats, virtual classes, and workshops. With over 250 writers engaged in their retreats and approximately 400 books authored by their participants, Kundiman's imprint on the literary landscape is enduring. However, as Kundiman's reach and programs have grown, so too has the intricacy of the data gathering required for their operations.

Traditionally, Kundiman utilized a donor management system for contact management and gathered data through various survey tools, resulting in inconsistencies, particularly in documenting ethnic backgrounds. The use of diverse terminology by participants to express their heritage complicated the standardization and precise analysis of demographic data.

The primary objective for Kundiman was to consolidate these data streams, minimize manual data intervention, and enhance data integrity. The Force for Good team, captivated by Kundiman's mission, tackled this challenge by employing a ready-made workflow automation solution to synchronize and automate data transfer across platforms. This strategy ensures that data from different sources can be updated automatically in a central repository, eradicating the need for manual input and curtailing errors.

The project's influence surpassed the realm of data consolidation. It enabled Kundiman to map demographic trends and pinpoint communities in need. As the pandemic and economic downturns shifted the needs of Asian American communities, accurate demographic tracking became indispensable. A 2022 report by Equitable Growth indicated that Asian Americans in New York City experienced longer periods of unemployment and higher poverty rates compared to other ethnic groups. Armed with this insight, Kundiman's capacity to adjust and broaden their support became increasingly vital.

The project's triumph was a result of the collaborative spirit and commitment of all parties involved. The Force for Good team delivered not only a technological solution but also provided training and documentation, ensuring Kundiman's staff could maintain the new system autonomously. This holistic approach guaranteed long-term advantages and sustainability for Kundiman.

The Force for Good program's partnership with Kundiman exemplifies how strategic, well-considered technological interventions can lead to substantial social change. It highlights the significance of the Force for Good's ongoing support and innovation within the non-profit sector, ensuring that organizations like Kundiman can flourish and persist in their crucial endeavors.