Nomination FAQs

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is a good candidate to be a ZeroDivide Fellow (ZFellow)?

Good candidates are passionate about the possibilities information and communications technology (ICT) has for underserved communities seeking social justice. They seek out new knowledge and practice with the intent of applying it in their workplace and community. They want to be part of a network of community leaders who engage technology tools, strategies and policies to impact social change in California. They are introspective and self aware. They work well in both individual pursuits and in groups. They have used basic ICT. They have the full support of their employer and family because of the intensity of the program. They can make a two-year commitment.

Do I have to work in a community based organization or hold a specific type of leadership position to apply?

No, CTFC is looking for individuals from a variety of sectors – nonprofit, government, industry, philanthropy, small business, social enterprise; and social entrepreneurs who are from, represent or work in underserved communities in California. Network building across sectors is an important part of the program. We are seeking individuals who have demonstrated leadership in a variety of ways. For example, someone who has made an impact in their community as a staff member or board member of a community based organization, a community-based entrepreneur, or a community organizer.

How would I benefit from the ZeroDivide Fellowship?

You will benefit in a variety of ways. You will be better equipped to lead or participate in social change using ICT. You will develop close relationships with ZFellows in other regions of the state. You will have a peer network to discuss the Fellowship and workplace or community issues. You will develop new contacts with potential partners in nonprofit, government, corporate and small business venues.

Can I nominate myself?

Yes!

What should I do if I want to nominate someone?

To nominate someone, work with the candidate to complete the nomination form with answers to the questions, and submit the candidates’ resume and two signed letters of reference. We also ask that you tell us in an additional cover letter why your candidate should be a ZFellow.

What is the nature of the commitment to be a ZFellow?

ZFellows will participate in a two-day orientation session and four four-day learning sessions over the course of the two years. Most of these sessions take place during part of a weekend to minimize time away from work and family. ZFellows will complete a Strategic Impact Project in the second year. Over the course of the fellowship, ZFellows can expect to spend time preparing for upcoming convenings and working on projects. They will also contribute to a variety of network building activities such as weblogs, listservs, and online discussions. In addition, there will be opportunities to participate in workshops and webinars.

What is the Strategic Impact Project?

ZFellows are required to complete a Strategic Impact Project which positively impacts an underserved community through the use of information and communications technology and/or through advocacy on a technology policy issue. Strategic Impact Projects can be done individually or in a small group of ZFellows (no more than three). ZFellows are eligible to apply to the Foundation for a grant of up to $5,000 to complete their Strategic Impact Projects. Through the Strategic Impact Project, ZFellows have developed a statewide technology policy road map, sponsored GIS training for nonprofit organizations, trained community members on digital storytelling, conducted a technology summit for youth, and supported technology-based advocacy efforts of LGBT organizations.

What if I’m interested in community technology policies at the national level?

The focus of the ZeroDivide Fellowship is to create a statewide community technology movement for underserved communities within the state of California. Therefore the major focus of the program is on state and local technology policy issues. Discussions on national policies may come up during the course of the fellowship, particularly as they impact underserved communities. However, ZFellows are expected to principally focus on making an impact on the community technology field in California. In addition, ZFellows must be residents of California throughout the duration of the two-year fellowship.

What if I can’t attend the orientation session on October 14 - 15 or Session 1 on November 1-4?

Attendance and participation in all sessions is mandatory. If you cannot rearrange your schedule to participate in these sessions, we regret that you cannot be considered for Class III of the ZeroDivide Fellowship.

Is there a cash award associated with the ZeroDivide Fellowship?

No, the ZeroDivide Fellowship is not a cash award. CTFC, however, will cover modest expenses for ZFellows’ participation in the convenings including transportation to/from sessions, meals, and lodging (double occupancy). Given the valuable skills, tools, and connections that the ZFellows gain from the convenings, some ZFellows have been able to negotiate additional leave from their work responsibilities to participate fully.

Will my organization receive any monetary benefit from my participation in the ZeroDivide Fellowship?

No, selection as a ZFellow does not bring any additional likelihood of funding for your organization.

How can I get the nomination form and submit it to CTFC?

CTFC is committed to providing numerous avenues for nominees/applicants to submit their information, and to do so in a way that is accessible to all:

• Download the nomination form from our website.

• Request a copy of the nomination form by calling (415) 371-8808 x 309, TTY: (415) 371-8823 or emailing ZFellows@zerodivide.org.

Once you complete the application and the supporting documents (one-page resume and two letters of reference), you can either send them to us via email (ZFellows@zerodivide.org) or regular mail:

Community Technology Foundation of California ZeroDivide Fellowship

One Rincon Center

101 Spear Street, Suite 218

San Francisco, CA 94105

What is the deadline?

Complete nominations (including a one-page resume and two letters of reference) must be received by 5:00pm on Friday, June 29, 2007. Incomplete nominations will not be considered.

What is the process for selection of the ZFellows?

ZFellows’ selection will be based on several criteria including demonstrated leadership in an underserved community, commitment to social change and civic engagement, and commitment to applying ICT as a strategy and tool in community advocacy efforts. (Please refer to the Call for Nominations for the full list of criteria.)

Finalists will be interviewed in July and August 2007.

Decisions will be announced in September 2007.

How can I get more information?

If you have more questions, please email us at ZFellows@zerodivide.org or call (415) 371-8808 x 309. Our TTY line is: (415) 371-8823.