This year’s Geeks Give Back honorees for the 2024 GeekWire Awards include Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center’s Coding for Cancer, Housing Connector, and TrueMedia. The Geeks Give Back category is presented by BECU and recognizes organizations and individuals in the Pacific Northwest using technology for positive initiatives and community impact. These honorees were selected based on community nominations and input from awards judges, showcasing the innovative ways tech can be used for social good and positive change.
The Coding for Cancer program at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center aims to introduce high school students to the role of computing in biomedicine and cancer research. The program is virtual to reach a wider geographical area and prioritizes inclusivity by serving teens from historically excluded backgrounds. Participants receive a stipend after completing the program and do not require any prior computer science skills, allowing them to explore the possibilities of coding in biomedical sciences at an early age.
Housing Connector is addressing the housing crisis in the Seattle area by connecting landlords with renters who have imperfect rental backgrounds. The nonprofit provides rent guarantees, damage insurance, and social services to support both landlords and renters, aiming to create safe and stable housing opportunities. Partnering with Zillow, Housing Connector has expanded to multiple cities and helped thousands of individuals find housing, demonstrating the importance of collaborative solutions to address pressing social issues.
TrueMedia is using artificial intelligence to detect deepfake videos, photos, and audio in an effort to combat political disinformation ahead of the 2024 elections. Led by Oren Etzioni, the nonprofit is developing a web-based tool that combines advanced technology with existing deepfake detection tools to support journalists, fact-checkers, and online influencers. With support from Uber founder Garrett Camp, TrueMedia’s nonpartisan approach highlights the importance of utilizing tech to uphold truth and integrity in political discourse.
The GeekWire Awards will announce the winners in various categories, including the Geeks Give Back Award, on May 9 at Showbox SoDo in Seattle. Community voting and input from judges will determine the recipients, showcasing the top innovators and companies in Pacific Northwest technology. Table sponsorships are available for those who wish to attend the event, with early bird pricing ending on March 31. For sponsorship opportunities or inquiries, contact events@geekwire.com to learn more about supporting the GeekWire Awards and celebrating technology’s positive impact on society.
Overall, the Geeks Give Back honorees for the 2024 GeekWire Awards exemplify the transformative power of technology in driving positive change and strengthening communities. From introducing students to coding in biomedicine to creating housing opportunities for vulnerable renters and combating political disinformation through AI, these initiatives showcase the diverse ways in which tech can be harnessed for social good. Through collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, these honorees are making a meaningful impact in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, inspiring others to use technology as a force for positive change.
