"Humanitarian" Open-Source projects

[Javasnob]

Does anyone know of any open-source projects that help people in need? For example, I know Vim helps out Uganda. I just think I should help people out, and programming's all I know other than languages...and languages don't help me much in America.

Thanks!

[fingal]

That's an interesting question! I had a search last night and I found nothing. Maybe you could start your own project on Sourceforge and see if you get any interest?

You might also decide to just programme for a living and donate some money to something ... Actually I read an article the other night which suggested that it really is possible to make money writing open source code. I mean a really good living.

I don't have the link, but Linus Torvalds suggested that writing open source isn't a career, it's a calling. So only do things you feel enthusiastic about.

If you do find the kind of project you're looking for, contact me because I don't write apps. but I can search for bugs, write documents, design and code a website for you and help you market your project. I also have a social conscience.

Having said that, 'humanitarian' means different things to different people.