CalCAPA Connect is a communication hub for California-based community action. Built on the Slack platform, CalCAPA Connect provides a place for communication channels based on a topic – similar to a web forum or email list, but far more powerful and easy to use. Registering and accessing CalCAPA Connect requires no specific training, just a computer or smart device connected to the internet – that’s all!
To access for the first time…
Simply use our custom link at https:calcapa.org/calcapa-connect. This will take you to a basic registration page for the CalCAPA Slack workspace. All that is necessary to register is a name and email address. Enter as much or little additional detail as you wish.
To stay connected…
Use the same link to access CalCAPA Connect from any desktop internet browser (Internet Explorer, Edge, Firefox, Chrome, etc.). In some instances, you may need to have your IT administrator “whitelist” the web address – this would be indicated with an error in the browser when using the link. Alternatively, you can download the desktop application to run in the background of your Windows or Mac PC. There are also mobile apps available in the Google Play or iOS App Stores. Links to those applications may be found at https://slack.com/downloads
How it works…
When you first register, you will automatically be added to several general community channels based on their topic. You may join any of the other existing public channels by typing /join in the message line. A list of available channels will pop up for you to choose one. They all start with a #. There are many additional private channels that require an invitation to join.
Don’t see what you are looking for? You can also create your own public or private channel. This may be useful for topics that only pertain to your agency or organization. For instance, CalCAPA uses several private channels for internal communications.
Connect an app. MANY internet-based services have connector apps to Slack to allow alerts and other functions in channels. CalCAPA uses apps to get calendar alerts from G Suite by Google, conduct polls with Doodle or SurveyMonkey, and share documents with Google Drive or Adobe Creative Cloud.
Who is this for?
CalCAPA Connect is open and available to anyone that performs work in Community Action including, but not limited to:
- Community Action Agency Management & Staff
- Board Members
- CSBG Sub-Contractors
- Training and Technical Assistance professionals
- National Support Teams
- State CSBG Offices
Not in the California network?
CalCAPA established CalCAPA Connect for the California network. For nonprofits with 501(c)3 status, Slack provides its first tier of paid access for free. Topic channels may be shared between Slack workspaces at that level of access. If you are interested in establishing a separate workspace, contact Lawrence Hiner through a direct message in Slack or via email lhiner@calcapa.org.