Over the past 7 years, Geo Marques Neto has been a skilled volunteer with Apparo, helping nonprofits streamline their technology processes thus allowing them to spend more time focusing on their mission.
Geo Marques Neto is a business consultant and software engineer with over 30 years of experience. He is currently a Strategy Consultant with Bartech Staffing. Geo has been a vital part of many Apparo projects, including the Technology Foundations 101 cohort and several Community Impact Projects. Geo shared his journey with Apparo below:
I first got involved with Apparo in 2018, when a friend invited me to support a project for Charlotte Family Housing. The nonprofit needed help with their technology systems, including a more complex integration with other applications, and the opportunity to contribute using my professional skills really struck a chord. It was a chance to give back in a meaningful way—not just through time and effort, but by applying the kind of experience I use every day in my career. That’s one of the biggest differences I’ve noticed between volunteering with Apparo and other nonprofit work I’ve done: here, I get to make an impact by doing what I do best.
Apparo gives volunteers structure and flexibility
From the beginning, working with Apparo has been an incredibly positive experience. Their programs are well-structured, and the Apparo team is always supportive, present, and quick to assist when needed. At the same time, they trust their volunteers and give us the autonomy to work directly with the nonprofits. That balance—between structure and flexibility—makes the experience especially rewarding. I’ve appreciated being able to coordinate timelines that fit with everyone’s availability and develop real relationships with the nonprofit partners along the way.
What I find particularly interesting is that the work isn’t always about implementing modern technology solutions. Many times, volunteers act like a sounding board or just help when the nonprofit is feeling overwhelmed. I remember one project where we went through an entire software discovery process only to find out that the best option for that organization was the software they were already using – what they actually needed was training and a better understanding of their existing software’s capabilities. These moments remind me that sometimes the most valuable contribution is simply providing clarity and confidence to organizations that are stretched thin.
Geo Marques Neto participated in the Application Selection Community Impact Project for Big Brother Big Sisters of Central Carolinas.
Directly impact the community’s future
Another aspect I enjoy is how much I learn through each project. It’s not just about delivering tech solutions—it’s also about gaining insight into the nonprofit ecosystem and understanding the local organizations working hard to support our community. Through various projects, I’ve gained a bird’s-eye view of what’s happening locally to help people who need it most, and this perspective has deepened my appreciation for the interconnected web of community support efforts. I’ve found this especially powerful when partnering with nonprofits focused on youth development. Seeing their commitment firsthand and being able to contribute in a tangible way—knowing that the solutions we implement can directly impact young people’s opportunities and futures—is incredibly fulfilling.
If you’re looking for a way to give back that truly leverages your professional skills, I’d encourage you to explore what Apparo has to offer. The experience has been rewarding beyond what I initially expected, and I’m confident you’ll find the same meaningful impact—both for the organizations you serve and for yourself.
