According to the Missing Maps program, nearly 100,000 people are killed as a result of disasters each year, and about 200 million people are displaced. The Philly Mapathon will give volunteers the opportunity to map the areas where vulnerable people live so first responders can provide relief in times of need.
What is a Mapathon?
The Philly Mapathon is part of the larger Missing Maps Project, a collaborative effort between the American Red Cross, British Red Cross, Médecins Sans Frontières-UK, and the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team to map areas of the world in need. A Mapathon is a chance for people to get together to map priority areas of the world so that humanitarian organizations can plan access to these locations.
The Missing Maps Process
Step 1: Volunteers trace satellite imagery into OpenStreetMap (example = Philly Mapathon!)
Step 2: Community volunteers add local detail such as neighborhoods, street names, and evacuation centers
Step 3: Humanitarian organizations used mapped information to plan risk reduction and disaster response activities that save lives
What will you do at this event?
During the Philly Mapathon, you’ll trace features like roads and buildings on a satellite image basemap. Don’t worry, we’ll teach you everything you need to know when you get to the event. No experience is necessary. Anyone with a passion for volunteering, philanthropy, or helping others can participate!
Volunteers can come for any amount of time from 5:00PM to 9:00PM.
While experience isn’t required, experienced mapping professionals are also welcome and encouraged to attend the event. Mapping Mentors will be available during the event to help others by answering technical questions about digitization and editing in OpenStreetMap.
Please fill out this form if you would like to be a Mapping Mentor and help others learn how to use OSM on the day of the event.
What you need for the event:
- a laptop (mouse optional, but encouraged)
What we’ll supply:
- a space to work
- food and beverages
- access to power outlets
- free wifi
- instructions and resources to help you succeed
Why is this event right for you?
- Different than a typical speaker/audience event – collaborate with others as you help communities in need
- No in-depth technical knowledge required – just bring a laptop and we’ll get you started mapping areas across the world
- Go home feeling great at the end of the night – your contributions during the event will help people receive relief and aid from organizations like The Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders.
Use Your Time for Good
Are you looking for volunteer opportunities that could impact millions of people?
Want to help communities around the world receive aid and relief in the wake of disasters or conflicts?
Are you looking for a chance a participate in a global project that puts vulnerable people on the map?
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions then you need to join the Philly Mapathon on May 4th from 5-9pm at the Azavea office in Philadelphia, PA.
The Philly Mapathon is part of Philly Tech Week 2017.
Azavea is organizing and hosting the Philly Mapathon because it’s a great fit for our mission: we apply geospatial technology and analysis for civic, social, and environmental impact. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to learn more about our work.
