I utilized internet data on community service to create questions for a screener survey. In this survey, I carefully selected a representative sample of 10-15 diverse users. My questions covered a range of topics, including the frequency of participants' engagement in community service, their favorite apps, and how they socialize with their friends.  I wanted to assess whether the participants' social life primarily revolved around social media or in-person interactions. Additionally, I aimed to gauge their level of involvement in their respective communities. Most interview participants reported feeling bad about not participating in any volunteer work, but they did not actively seek ways to serve. Additionally, I conducted a competitive audit of three direct competitor apps or websites that are directly involved in helping non-profit organizations, as well as two indirect non-profits that actively recruit community members to get involved in serving. By analyzing the challenges identified in the user pain points from the screener survey and the competitive audit report, I was able to compile my findings into problem statements, personas, and ultimately formulate goals and solutions.

Based on my user research, I had to develop distinct goals for each platform. This approach ensures that the objectives align with the specific needs and preferences of users on each platform. It became clear that each platform had to serve a distinct purpose while still being interconnected enough to support each other's objectives.

~Awareness - The majority of users did not consider volunteering initially, let alone downloading an app for that specific purpose. Many volunteer apps or websites lacked information about how to serve, specific dates and times for volunteering, and a range of options for volunteering.

~Time - Some of the users claimed to be tired from their daily stresses and have expressed difficulty in finding time or alternative ways to serve their community.

~Lonliness - Most users have reported spending more time on social media than they intended to, but they feel that it is one of the few ways to maintain a connection with the real world when they are at home. The majority of them also expressed that they were unsure of how to meet new friends outside of their workplace or places of worship.

~Buy-in - Some participants, who were already active in their communities, felt that they faced challenges in persuading their peers to volunteer with them. They expressed a lack of methods to make community service appealing to others.

Aaliyeah Hashemi represents a parent, an activist, and a concerned community member who aims to actively serve her community while also leading her family in philanthropic endeavors. She represents people who have a desire to serve, but need information on where to start.

Adeel Korai, a busy medical student who is new to the United States, represents individuals who have a desire to connect with others in their community but may face challenges in physically volunteering or lack transportation. In such situations, there is a need for digital engagement opportunities. Adeel, who represents the NBU, may not have access to a smart device and needs to access technology through websites.