The volunteer, who has undergone three hours of training, visits the agency to identify and resolve Y2K compliance issues. The program's volunteers are Washington, D.C., citizens like Christine Trafford who are looking for opportunities to help others. Trafford, a lawyer who has taken some computer programming classes, said the Buddy Project sounded more interesting to her than painting or picking up roadside trash. Goodinson likes the idea of casual computer users offering technical help. Project Director Steve Kane believes the Buddy Project highlights a much- needed but underused type of community service in which volunteers use technical skills, rather than physical labor, to help others.
Phone support is available to volunteers in case they have any questions while working on-site.
Following the visit, the volunteer prepares a report and follows up with a phone call to the agency to check on Y2K progress. Organizations that apply for help must sign a waiver stating that they will not hold the program's organizers or volunteers responsible for any Y2K-related losses or problems. Buddy Project organizers say they are saving agencies hundreds or even thousands of dollars in private computer consulting costs by giving them the tools and support they need without the cost. Agencies receiving assistance seem to be pleased with the help. The Y2K Buddy Project serves Washington, D.C., only, Kane said.