We recently caught up with Sima Parekh, Director, Operations Strategy & Programs at IHG Hotels and Resorts, and Executive Director at 48in48.org. Get to know her passion for Atlanta and how you can join her in service.

Tell us about the organization you volunteer with.

I have been involved with 48in48 for the past 6 years in multiple capacities, it’s become my passion project. The organization brings together volunteers who excel in digital marketing and technology to build free websites for many deserving nonprofits in a 48-hour “hack-a-thon.”

The organization has built over 950 websites to date, and we will build our 1000th site at the Women's Build Event - which will result in an an estimated give back value totaling $25M of service.

The fact that we can make a difference in the life of a nonprofit in 48 hours is instantly gratifying, and the ripple effect and value of the new website our volunteers create is priceless!

Share a little bit about the impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta you care about most.

I’m passionate about improving public transportation and education in Atlanta. We need to reduce our carbon footprint and protect the environment, and Atlanta's education system is consistently in the lower thirds. If we want our children to be the leaders for tomorrow, we must give them the tools to succeed. I believe education is the key to teaching all our children to appreciate diversity.

How has the Covid-19 pandemic affected your volunteering efforts?

Our organization lost funding and fulltime staff due to the pandemic. The hackathons that were once held in cities around the country ended abruptly. Fortunately, we were able to pivot to 100% virtual events. Thanks to our incredible volunteers, we hosted our largest online build event in October 2020, where we built 63 websites in 48 hours. We stayed nimble and focused.

Is there a memorable moment or highlighted event that sticks out to through your experience with 48in48?

In 2020, we held our first onsite event in Miami, FL. This is where I met Layla, the eight year old nonprofit CEO/President of Let's Be Selfless. Her charity is focused on giving toys to children in hospitals. She started the charity because she had so much and wanted to give something back to others. She mobilized her friends, classmates and community to help with her mission. Our website helps her reach more people. Every year and every event, I come across amazing people doing selfless things. If an eight year old can do this, nothing should keep me or anyone else from giving 48 hours to our mission.

How can Atlanta get involved and join you volunteering?

The next 48in48 event will take place on April 9-11, when we will host a Women's Build Event. This event comes on the heels of Women's Month and will showcase the talent of women, as all website build teams will be made up of women. While exciting, this event is is currently full.

Volunteers can help with our Social Justice event, coming up in June. You can learn more about this event (and others) and get involved at our site 48in48.org.

Inspired by Sima’s story?

Help us engage and highlight incredible efforts like Sima’s, by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta. It takes hard work AND financial support to tackle Atlanta’s most pressing needs. When you let our hands be yours, every $1 invested turns into $6 of economic impact! Donate now and help ensure a more civically engaged and equitable Atlanta.